Chikungunya is a viral disease spread mainly by the Aedes mosquitoes. Others may be Culex and Mansonia species.

Aedes mosquitoes are Household container breeders

* It breeds in clean water

* In all stored water for drinking, washing and bathing

* Rainwater collected in unused materials like coconut shells, mud pots, plastic cups, tyres etc.

* Gutters & drains

Symptoms

* Fever Which Can Reach 39°C, (102.2 °F)

* Petechial or Maculopapular Rash Usually Involving the Limbs and Torso

* Arthralgia or Arthritis Affecting Multiple Joints Which Can Be Debilitating.

* Headache, Conjunctival Injection and Slight Photophobia.

Prevention 

* Elimination of stagnant water at home, schools and work places to prevent the breeding of mosquitoes.  

* Using insect repellents over the exposed parts of the body.

* Using mosquito screens or nets in non – Air-conditioned rooms.  

* Wearing long sleeved clothes like long trousers of a light shade for protection against mosquitoes. 

* Properly covering all water tanks so that mosquitoes cannot get in

* Getting rid of any container capable of retaining water in the outdoor surroundings (used tyres, food cans, garbage, saucers under flower pots, etc)

* Renew water in flower vases at least once a week

For Help

* Contact the Public Health Department, Colombo Municipal Council