Karnataka has reported 2, 47,436 suspected cases of 'Chikungunya' a viral disease transmitted by mosquitoes. The disease has spread to 130 taluks in 23 districts. Many primary health centres (PHCs) in the State are facing a massive drug shortage to contain the disease. But officials from the Directorate of Health and Family Welfare maintain that there is no cause for alarm and steps have been taken to contain the disease.

The epidemic which broke out a few months ago, spread to northern Karnataka, Malnad region and the coastal and southern districts. However no deaths have been reported as yet.

According to Health Commissioner Basavaraju about 200 people had reported the symptoms in the last two weeks. The disease is spread by mosquitoes breeding in stagnant water. The health department with the assistance of local bodies is now taking steps to maintain hygiene.

Following the complaints, the State government is in the process of devising a strategy to contain the spread of Chikungunya. Since many cases were reported from Kolar and Bangalore district, medical teams were being despatched to these districts.

There were grievances from across the state that distinct health officers had not maintained the adequate supply of medicines to primary health centres to check the spread of the disease.

Last month 78,175 suspected cases of Chikungunya were reported in 61 taluks of 15 districts. Scientists from the National Institute of Virology Field Station Bangalore tested the blood samples and found 205 were affected.

The last outbreak of the Chikungunya occurred in 1965 and this time the first case was reported from Bidar in North Karnataka.

According to Dr. Kavitha Rani. B., Veterinary pathologist, Vetcare R&D, Bangalore, Chikungunya fever is a viral disease (Alphavirus, of the family Togaviridae) transmitted to humans by the bite of infected mosquitoes. In India, more than two lakh people were affected with Chikungunya in Andhra Pradesh in 2006. Many districts in Karnataka like Gulbarga, Tumkur, Bidar, Raichur, Bellary, Chitradurga, Davanagere, Kolar, Bijapur, Gadag and Bangalore have shown incidences of the disease since May 2006. Now, the disease has become quite rampant and common, similar to Dengue fever.

"The virus causes a debilitating illness characterized by fever, headache, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, muscle pain, rash on limbs and trunk, and severe joint pain. The time from infection to manifestation of illness is usually 3-7 days. Like any other viral diseases, there is no specific treatment available for Chikungunya. Symptomatic treatment with antipyretics, pain killers, fluids and good rest is required for recovery. Infected persons should be protected from further exposure to mosquitos so that their contribution to the transmission cycle is minimised. For prophylaxis, there is no vaccine available till date," informed Dr. Kavitha Rani. B.