31 cases of chikungunya confirmed in Dominica

Health officials in Dominica have confirmed 31 cases of chikungunya.

Chikungunya, which is an infection, causes an illness with a similar mode of transmission as dengue fever. Chikungunya is a viral disease, carried mainly by the Aedes aegypti mosquito and causes a dengue-like sickness. Symptoms of the disease includes a sudden high fever, severe pain in the wrists, ankles or knuckles, muscle pain, headache, nausea, and rash. Joint pain and stiffness are more common symptoms associated with the Chikungunya disease which are not associated with dengue.

Dominica reported its first case of the illness in January this year. At present, the main areas where the disease is located are WoodFord Hill and Bath Estate areas, according to health officials.