The Daily Star has recently published a story about the spread of mosquitoes in and around the capital. It is evident that diseases like chikungunya and dengue are not very uncommon in Bangladesh.

The concomitant presence of other arthropod-borne infections with similar courses of illness makes it difficult to distinguish chikungunya. Awareness and clinical knowledge are, therefore, necessary to diagnose chikungunya properly.

The current detection and prevention strategies are insufficient to mount an effective public health response. In order to avoid getting bitten by mosquitoes, one must keep their surroundings clear of stagnant water or pools where mosquitoes can breed. It is important that both citizens and the authorities concerned make a concerted effort to keep the surroundings clean. Unless citizens take the initiative in this regard, the municipal authorities will only be fighting a losing battle.

Vinod C Dixit, By e-mail