More chikungunya cases

BARBADOS TODAY REPORTED 49 confirmed cases of chikungunya and 200 suspected cases.

Minister of Health John Boyce and Chief Medical Officer Dr Joy St John gave the figures during a tour of medical facilities at the Barbados Defence Force’s headquarters, St Ann’s Fort.

Boyce said the figures could be higher because a number of Barbadians might have resorted to treating themselves at home, rather than going to see a doctor.

The first case of chikungunya recorded in Barbados was on June 3 – reportedly a visitor who had travelled from another Caribbean country.

The Ministry of Health has advised the public to practise simple control methods to protect themselves from being bitten by the mosquitoes which transmit chikungunya. (TY)