Officials in Banteay Meanchey province report starting a chikungunya virus (CHIKV) awareness campaign this weekend after reporting an outbreak in Poipet city.

Image/CDC

To date, 160 infections have been reported by authorities.

The campaign is designed to better inform villagers about the dangers of CHIK and how to prevent it in 13 communes in several provinces.
 
Banteay Meanchey provincial deputy governor Ly Sary said the campaign will urge villagers to implement eradication of potential mosquito breeding grounds, installing mosquito nets over beds and keeping homes clean.
 
He also urged villagers to get check-ups and treatment at health centers or hospitals near their home if they display symptoms of the disease.
 

Chikungunya is a viral disease transmitted to humans by infected mosquitoes. It causes fever and severe joint pain, which is often debilitating. Other symptoms include muscle pain, headache, nausea, fatigue, and rash.

The disease shares some clinical signs with dengue and Zika, and can be misdiagnosed in areas where they are common. As there is no cure, treatment is focused on relieving the symptoms.