Health official reminds that CHIKV could worsen pre-existing conditions
MANDEVILLE, Manchester — A health official is reminding that the chikungunya virus (CHIKV) could worsen pre-existing medical conditions and urged those with symptoms of the virus to not take it lightly.
Dr Michael Coombs, the regional technical director for the Southern Regional Health Authority, said that persons with CHIKV-like symptoms should seek medical attention if they come down with the symptoms that include fever, joint pains and weakness.
Coombs was speaking at a recent Citizens’ Association and Neighbourhood Watch forum in the parish.
A number of people have died — including two teachers and a student from Vere Technical High School, a student of the Shortwood Teachers’ College and a 14-year old from St Jago High — between September and October after reportedly catching chikungunya.
In the majority of the deaths, the victims reportedly had pre-existing medical conditions.
