Rising Risk Of Chikungunya, Urgent Measures Needed: Pakistan Academy Of Family Physicians

PESHAWAR, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 28th Jul, 2025) Pakistan Academy of Family Physicians has expressed concern over the rising global threat of chikungunya by the World Health Organization and has appealed to the government of Pakistan and the provincial government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and relevant institutions to take immediate and coordinated measures.

In a press statement issued here on Monday, the academy warns that if immediate measures are not taken, the virus could become a major epidemic in the country.

Chikungunya is a dangerous viral disease that is spread by mosquitoes and causes patients to suffer from high fever, joint pain, muscle pain and severe weakness.

According to the World Health Organization, the virus has spread to more than 100 countries in the world, and South Asian countries, especially Pakistan, are under the threat of its potential impact.

President of Peshawar Chapter of the Pakistan Academy of Family Physicians, Professor Dr. Rashid Mahmood said that problems such as weather, sanitation conditions, and waterlogging in urban areas can facilitate the spread of the virus. He said that if we do not take steps now, a new health crisis may arise in the coming days.

Dr.

Rashid demanded that the government immediately take steps that will enable early identification, rapid diagnosis, and timely treatment of the disease. He suggested that all Primary health centers be provided with necessary medical facilities and family doctors and frontline health workers be trained in the recognition and treatment of chikungunya.

He also stressed on making mosquito control campaigns effective, including sprays, smoke, use of larvicides and public awareness campaigns.

Full participation of not only government agencies but also the public is necessary in this campaign, he added.

The public has been advised not to allow water to accumulate in and around their homes, use mosquito repellents, wear full-sleeved clothes, and use mosquito nets at night, especially in areas where mosquito breeding is high.

If anyone has fever, joint pain, or red rashes on the body, they should immediately consult a doctor and completely avoid self-treatment.

The Pakistan Academy of Family Physicians has reiterated that it is ready to fully cooperate with the government and will play a full role in awareness and training campaigns for the prevention and treatment of chikungunya across the country.