25 cases of Chikungunya confirmed in Mombasa

**Pick up mounted with a fogging machine moves around Mombasa building premises and streets spreading a cloud of fumigation in a bid to get rid of mosquito breeding areas on February 10, 2018.** [File, Standard]

A Chikungunya outbreak has hit Mombasa County, with health officials confirming at least 25 positive cases following laboratory analysis at the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI).

The mosquito-borne virus has resurfaced amid ongoing rains, which have created widespread breeding grounds, exacerbating the situation.

Out of 50 suspected cases, 45 samples were tested, revealing one case of dengue fever and 25 of Chikungunya, according to the Ministry of Health.

The most affected sub-counties are Mvita, Kisauni, Nyali, and Likoni. In response, county officials have activated emergency response teams and launched fumigation exercises in the worst-hit areas.

Residents are being urged to eliminate mosquito breeding sites, cover water storage containers, and use mosquito nets to prevent further spread.

Dr. Saumu Wayua, Acting Director of Public Health and Disease Prevention, explained, “We’ve had malaria and dengue fever before, but Chikungunya presents with more severe joint pain and swelling, often accompanied by a rash. It wasn’t as prevalent last year, but the ongoing rains have led to a sharp increase in cases. That’s why we had to conduct DNA PCR testing at KEMRI, ".

This isn’t the first time Chikungunya has struck Kenya.

In May 2016, the Ministry of Health reported an outbreak in Mandera East sub-county, where KEMRI confirmed 7 out of 10 samples tested positive for the virus.

A year later, in December 2017, another outbreak affected all six sub-counties of Mombasa. By January 2018, the Ministry had recorded 69 suspected cases, with 27 confirmed.

A 2021 study published in BMC Infectious Diseases highlighted the continued presence of the virus in coastal Kenya and recommended including Chikungunya in the differential diagnosis for febrile illnesses in children.

Dr Yubrine Moraa, Consultant Physician and Cardiologist at Primecare Heart Clinic at The Nairobi Hospital has seen the virus's toll firsthand.

Originally from Malindi, she emphasizes that Chikungunya is primarily transmitted by Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes aggressive daytime biters common in urban areas.

“Chikungunya has a rapid onset with intense joint pain, often described as ‘bone-breaking, Dr Moraa explains. “Even after the fever subsides, joint pain can persist for weeks or even months, ".

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), symptoms typically include fever, joint pain, headache, muscle aches, joint swelling, and rash.

There is no specific treatment for Chikungunya, and prevention through mosquito control remains the best strategy.

The virus is known to spread quickly, especially in low-lying coastal areas during and after the rainy season.

Dr Moraa also warns that climate change is altering mosquito breeding patterns. “We’re seeing increased transmission even in previously low-risk areas due to poor drainage, urban sprawl, and rising temperatures,” She notes.

She urges communities to recognize early signs, which typically include sudden fever, rash, muscle pain, headache, and severe joint pain in areas like the hands, wrists, ankles, or feet.

Unlike flu or dengue, the lasting joint pain is a key indicator.

Since no vaccine or antiviral treatment exists, care is mainly supportive. “Rest, fluids, and paracetamol are advised,” Dr. Moraa says. “But NSAIDs or aspirin should be avoided during the acute phase, especially if dengue hasn’t been ruled out due to bleeding risks, ".

The virus, while generally self-limiting, can severely affect infants, the elderly, and people with chronic illnesses. “Urban hospitals are equipped to manage cases, but rural areas still face diagnostic and resource challenges during outbreaks,” She adds.

Prevention is key. “While mosquito nets protect against malaria, repellents, screened housing, and eliminating standing water are essential for Chikungunya,” says Dr Moraa. She calls for robust community interventions cleanup campaigns, public awareness, and proper waste management to reduce mosquito populations.

“Many people are aware of malaria but don’t understand the threat posed by Chikungunya, especially since these mosquitoes bite during the day. Public health messaging must evolve, " She stresses.

Dr Moraa remains committed to public education and strengthening community preparedness. “I’ll continue to amplify these messages so we can better protect our communities,” She affirms.

The World Health Organization (WHO) is currently reviewing global vaccine trial data to guide future recommendations for Chikungunya prevention. For now, WHO advises that patients with suspected infections avoid mosquito bites during the first week of illness to prevent spreading the virus to others.

As the rains continue, the threat of Chikungunya looms large over Mombasa and other vulnerable regions. Coordinated local, national, and global efforts are urgently needed to curb its spread.