The spread of the chikungunya virus in China is becoming more complex. This was reported by Zamin.uz.
In Guangdong province, due to the increase in Aedes mosquitoes that spread this virus, the government has implemented a new method. Large mosquitoes of the Toxorhynchites splendens species have been released into the air as natural enemies in the fight against the virus.
These mosquitoes do not bite humans but instead feed on and eliminate smaller, yet infectious Aedes mosquitoes. This biological protection program is being managed by researchers from the Junshan Medical School affiliated with Sun Yat-sen University.
In Foshan city, over 6,000 people have contracted chikungunya within three weeks. The country is reintroducing traditional measures that were used during the Covid-19 pandemic.
These include mass PCR testing, isolation zones, and extensive disinfection efforts in neighborhoods. Additionally, over 5,000 fish have been released into ponds and rivers to target and eliminate mosquito eggs and larvae.
In Guangzhou city, a risk map has been created for 120 districts to protect the population. According to this map, the air is cleaned twice daily using special insecticides.
The government has launched a week-long continuous disinfection campaign. Chikungunya is transmitted only through bites from infected mosquitoes.
The disease was first identified in Tanzania in 1952. Its name derives from the Kimakonde word meaning "to bend" which reflects the joint pain associated with the illness.
Unfortunately, there is currently no specific and effective vaccine against this virus. The incubation period typically lasts from two to seven days.
The disease can start suddenly, presenting with high fever, severe joint pain, muscle discomfort, headache, rash, nausea, and vomiting. Although fatalities are rare, the severe consequences of the disease negatively impact the quality of life.
For this reason, utilizing unique natural resources is being considered as a new effective solution. Overcoming mosquitoes with mosquitoes is no longer a fantasy but a reality of life.
