Chikungunya incidence confirmed

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Pondicherry - Chikungunya incidence confirmed
http://www.hindu.com/2006/09/20/stories/2006092005620300.htm

<TABLE width="100%" bgColor=#d0f0ff border=0><TBODY><TR><TD>Four cases confirmed from Kamarajar Nagar, Reddiarpalayam, Solai Nagar and Upplam </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>


<HR color=lightblue noShade>Four out of 10 blood samples infected
A few more cases expected; test results awaited <HR color=lightblue noShade>
PUDUCHERRY:

Health Minister E. Valsaraj has confirmed the incidence of chikungunya in Pondicherry.

The National Institute of Communicable Diseases, New Delhi, has confirmed that out of 10 blood samples sent to the Institute last week by the Health Department here, four were infected with Chikungunya, the Minister told reporters on Tuesday.

The four confirmed cases have been reported from Kamarajar Nagar, Reddiarpalayam, Solai Nagar and Upplam, he said.

He added that there would be a few more cases and that the test results were awaited.

General Hospital Medical Superintendent Dr. Govindarajan said the infection was not fatal. The Minister said the Government had enough medicines to treat the infection.

"There is no specific medicine for the treatment of chikungunya. However, all medicines for treatment of symptoms of fever are readily available at the GH," he said.

A control room has been opened at the General Hospital. People can call 2336050 for inquiry.