Dear Editor,
The government’s response to the scourge of chikungunya has been inadequate if at all existent.
According to my research, this mosquito-borne disease is severe, debilitating and life-threatening. According to the scientists, the symptoms begin within a few days of being bitten by an infected mosquito. The acute phase is characterised by fever, diarrhoea, vomiting and extreme bone and joint pain, during which normal activity is impossible. Following this, there is a prolonged period of joint pain that may last for months in healthy individuals, or years, in elderly or infirm patients. Clearly, this disease can cause loss of productivity as a result of great disability in those affected. Evidently, a robust and effective official response is essential.
My own experience with chikungunya has been exceedingly painful, and totally debilitating. My resulting visit to the public health institutions have revealed an overwhelming number of patients; I could not wait for treatment, I had to seek private medical attention.
Yet, where are the fogging exercises that could reduce the number of mosquitoes? Where are the advertisements and public announcements to encourage the use of mosquito repellent? Where are the mosquito nets to reduce infection? Where are our tax dollars going?
Why are we suffering and only given panadol at the public hospitals?
One other matter: if I, a grown man, was completely incapacitated by chikungunya for over two weeks, what is the effect of this disease on the elderly? And if an infant is infected, what are the effects? How many infants have died from chikungunya?
Yours faithfully,
Mark DaCosta
