KARACHI: Cases of Chikungunya, mosquito-borne viral disease are steadily increasing in Karachi, Sources said.

Increase in cases of chikungunya leads to surge in patients seeking relief for bone and joint pain at physiotherapy clinics. Dr. Fazilah, a physiotherapist in city, noted that many individuals suffering from severe joint and body pain due to Chikungunya are benefiting from physiotherapy treatments. Local hospitals, including Police Hospital, report dozens of new cases every month, as patients seek treatment for symptoms such as muscle pain, fatigue and inflammation.

Last month, Karachi saw surge in chikungunya cases over past five months, with 140 individuals confirmed to have contracted disease from May to September. During this period, 211 suspected cases of chikungunya was reported, with 189 individuals screened for disease. Out of those screened, 140 tested positive. National Institute of Health issued an advisory on controlling and preventing spread of chikungunya, disease similar to dengue fever. Ministry of Health directed relevant authorities to take immediate measures to combat outbreak. It warned that chikungunya is viral disease transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes.