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ILIGAN CITY - The number of Chikungunya cases in the country continues to decrease, according to the Department of Health, however there are nearly 3,000 cases reported since late last year, although no deaths have been reported so far.

Chikungunya is a viral disease that is transmitted to humans through bites from infected mosquitoes - including Aedes aegypti (which may also spread Dengue) and Aedes albopictus. Chikungunya

symptoms include the following: fever, joint pain (back, ankle, knee, wrist), joint swelling, rashes, headache, body aches, nausea, and fatigue. Symptoms appear 3-7 days after the patient is bitten by a mosquito carrying the virus.

Based on five-year data, Chikungunya cases usually increase during the rainy season, from June to September. This year, the trend is similar with cases currently at a downtrend after the

This was also echoed by Maj. Gen. Generoso Ponio, commander of the Joint Task Force Zamboanga Peninsula, who commended the 102nd Infantry Brigade for their accomplishment. “Zamboanga del Norte is now free from atrocities that hinder development,” he said.

Even Zamboanga del Norte Governor Roberto Uy declared his province free from insurgents. (Mindanao Examiner) higher numbers reported during the rainy season.

Chikungunya, as well as Dengue, can be prevented by destroying mosquito nests such as old tires, clogged drains, and water containers. While there is no specific medicine for Chikungunya itself, a doctor can prescribe the patient medicines to reduce pain and inflammation. Bathing with lukewarm water can also help someone with a fever. (Mindanao Examiner)