Several people I know now have Chikungunya, a mosquito-borne virus that causes severe flu-like symptoms. This is apparently not Dengue, but similar to this other virus that causes the same symptoms. According to those suffering, they experience fatigue, severe joint pain and a rash. They have been knocked out for about a week, or even longer. It is, however, not fatal, nor is it treatable though. In order to avoid it, people must not get bitten by infected mosquitos. This is difficult, though, given recent rains and the fact that many communities do not have regular trash pick-up or drain cleanings. (Mosquitos breed in still water).

This seems straightforward enough, right?

It is not, at least judging by the media coverage, politicization, misinformation and confusion.

The Ministry of Health is reporting 24 confirmed cases, while Opposition MP Delano Severeight is accusing the Ministry of “under-reporting”.

I have also suspected under-reporting, however, it is not so simple because many people suspect they have the virus and do not go to the doctor, so the Ministry is not informed of these cases.

In addition, there appears to be a terrible flu circulating, during which people experience similar symptoms. How is this so complicated though? If either Chikungunya and a severe flu are going around, why can’t officials state that? Why has this become politicized? Why is there so much confusion? And is Dengue also going around? What is the Ministry doing to prevent further infection?