Transcript
The latest health report released by Samoa's Ministry of Health shows the country is finally seeing a decrease in the number of Chikungunya virus infections.
Since the outbreak began last year in July, the estimated number of people reporting to clinics reached over 4000.
Indira Moala reports.
Samoa's Director General of Health says the report noted a steady decline in cases of the mosquito-borne virus since early December. Last week a clinical services manager of the National Health Services told local media the rate of infection had not slowed down. But Dr Take Naseri says the latest figures show otherwise.
TAKE NASERI: I think due to the very intense measures we've taken and a lot of health promotion and awareness, this has helped sort of slow down the disease. And are from the numbers recorded here, of cases reported to the health centres, we've noted a decline in the number of cases. Very thankful to our people for responding to our messages.
The president of the Samoa Registered Nurses' Association says the news is a welcome relief. Natu Neilson says health workers continue to stress prevention methods and raise awareness.
NATU NEILSON: Very pleased. We try our best to make it clear in our country. Yeah, and our advice to any signs of headache and fever and itching down the body, then you should see a nurse around in the community or Doctor.
The majority of ages affected continues to be those under 35 years old with more females being affected than males. A local female patient who wishes to remain anonymous, says she contracted the virus just last week. She says although cases are declining, people should still be careful and pay attention to the public health measures.
ANONYMOUS PATIENT: I was surprised because I've never experienced having any diseases. But I guess I got bitten by a mosquito. It was very painful. Sore joints and very high fevers. I only took panadol and fruit juice and water.
The Ministry of Health says it will continue to monitor the rate of infection. It recommends continued vigilance and prevention methods, particularly during this wet season.
