Chikungunya

Chikungunya is a relatively rare form of viral fever caused by an alphavirus that is spread by mosquito bites from Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, though recent research by the Pasteur Institute in Paris claims the virus has suffered a mutation that enables it to be transmitted by Aedes albopictus (Tiger mosquito). This was the cause of the plague in the Indian Ocean and a threat to the Mediterranean coast at present, requiring urgent meetings of health officials in the region.(http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chikungunya)


I came to know about the outbreak of Chikungunya through some cartoon strips in news papers,depicting people limping (yes,its funny to watch the problem happening else where;"araante ammaku brranthu pidichaal enikkenthaa chetham").But when it hits hard on us it comes as a shock.A disease gripping a whole state with people swarming the hospitals,army coming into picture(Which caused comedy shows in channel!!!!!),people dying(Excuse me:I never thought a viral fever can kill people!!)and entire ecnomy of state getting affected.The fever associated with this goes away in two days.But mild arthritis follows it.It takes six months for the disease to completely leave you.People in the working class are not able to work for some time even after the disease.Leg pain,body pain (Pain pain all over)
Doctors advise rest.But how can he rest when his kid cries out for food,when he has to pay the house rent and school fees and so on...


Several hypotheses regarding the origin were discussed like biological warfare(against Kerala,the Gods own country!!!!!),some new trick of pharmaceautical companies to increase sales(Evidence provided:Paracetamol/Dolo 650 was never out of stock even when the demand for these in the state reached an all time phenomenal high figure).Another joke followed when the opposing party wanted to call a Harthal (against Viral fever,I cant stop laughing;btw those who are not aware Harthal is the state festival of Kerala which happens every month called by political parties)


When will this end?No idea my friend(After all life is not fun with out those uncertainities guhuahua :-))Let us apply odomos,put mosquito nets and sleep safely under them.Also in the affected areas people have found an effective antidote."Paanal"leaf paste mixed in milk.It is beleived that it will prevent anybody from getting this and also helps those affected from the after effects.Beware of mosquitoes flying around from 6-8 P.M in the evening and from 4-6 A.M in the morning(After all only we ourselves can save us).Meanwhile lets think and talk about Presidential elections in US or more locally about the self financing colleges here.


Best of luck(For Aedes aegypti mosquitoes or for us who are vulnerable to Chikungunya !!!!!)