Cases of deadly chikungunya virus are increasing in Pakistan.

PESHAWAR: Following the outbreak of dengue in Pakistan, a new deadly viral infection Chikungunya has started to increase significantly in the last few weeks.

Following reports of cases in Peshawar and Mansehra, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Health Department has issued an official advisory to prevent the spread of the viral infection Chikungunya.

All District Health Officers (DHOs), Medical Superintendents (MS) and Medical Teaching Institutes (MTIs) have received the alert, which was issued on Wednesday.

The health department has informed the public about the dangers of chikungunya which is spread by mosquito bites.

DHOs, MSs, and MTIs have been directed to take appropriate measures to control the disease in accordance with the guidelines of the Centers for Disease Control of the National Institutes of Health. In view of the reported cases of chikungunya in Peshawar and Mansehra, the advisory strongly emphasizes taking precautionary measures.

Effective surveillance of chikungunya patients requires contact tracing to locate and evaluate additional people who are potentially infected.

The authorities concerned have also been directed to launch awareness programs to educate the public about the disease and its prevention methods.

Additionally, the recommendation calls for social organizations, environmental agencies, and all tehsil municipal administrations to work together in implementing preventive measures. Health facilities and medical educational institutions have been directed to make necessary arrangements for disease management.