Staff Writer – Latoya Wakefield
There’s been some confusion about the current epidemic we are experiencing in Jamaica. People in several parishes are experiencing symptoms of severe joint pain, high fevers, rashes, joint swelling and headaches. People are experiencing some or all of said symptoms and it has caused somewhat of a panic.
The thing is many Jamaicans aren’t sure what’s going on. Even though the symptoms are similar to those of Chikungunya; an insect-borne virus, of the genus ”Alphavirus”, that is transmitted to humans by virus-carrying ”Aedes” mosquitoes (and started at the same time the virus was introduced to the country), doctors are calling it the Flu virus. It’s understandable that they can’t particularly call it anything else unless a blood test confirms such. However, it is quite off putting and the implications of the flu affecting us coincidentally at the same time as Chikungunya also known as Chik. V aren’t pretty.
There was one report that stated that Dengue is also going around (symptoms are pretty similar to those of Chik. V and so- called Flu virus) and that’s where the confusion lies. Supposedly, you experienced these symptoms and it is one of any of these three, is it that you are vulnerable to the other two once you’re better? One more week of the same symptoms just isn’t appealing.
This virus whatever it may be is crippling people for about a week. It has decreased productivity and filled up hospitals with people in severe pain and high fevers with no idea about what to do about it. Up-and-coming recording artiste, Wayne J, hits the nail on the head when he stated in his single Chikungunya – “It mek a bag a young people a move old”. Some people are bed-ridden for days. Joint pain even continues after you’ve recovered. So is it right to say it’s a Flu virus? ….
Many Jamaicans are displeased with how the government handled the preparations for controlling the virus. It has spread like wild fire since it welcomed itself in the island in July. People feel enough hasn’t been done to educate the nation about the virus and decrease the chances of it spreading.
Photos courtesy www.mja.com.au
The fact is Chikungunya and whatever other virus is here and we can do something about it. We can help ourselves and help each other. We need to educate ourselves and educate each other about how to prevent and or treat the symptoms of these viruses. Here are a few tips I’ve gathered for those who are suffering from these symptoms:
Note: Currently there is no known cure for the disease or specific treatment but the few things aided people close to me:
- Panadol Multi-Symptoms for Pain and Fever – Take as directed and do not exceed the required amount. This aided and continues to aid many people with decreasing the joint pain and the fever. According to http://jis.gov.jm/, it is stated to Use Paracetamol pain killers ONLY. There are some reports against Ibuprofen so I’ve advised those I know to avoid that one
- Keep hydrated – drink loads of water, Coconut Water, juice (no concentrate) even if you don’t feel like it.
- A wet rag (constantly moist) on your forehead to prevent the fever from “going into your head” – This one is for persons with fever, particularly high fevers. High fevers can lead to delirium and cause brain damage or more.
- Apply ice if necessary. Ice aided one 13 year old who was at the point of delirium. It was placed in a rag and applied to his forehead and face to assist with bringing down the fever.
- Rest- go ahead and sleep or stay in bed but try to maintain treatment. Drink water every hour or 30 mins, moisten the rag when it dries out on your forehead. Keep a bit active mentally.
- Have someone monitor you – helping you with the treatment and bathroom activities. You might not be able to maneuver such simple acts on your own. Taking a shower for some people can be extremely difficult and dangerous. To prevent any accidents, someone who’s healthy should monitor this person until they’re up and going again especially if that person is a child, pregnant or an elder.
- NB: if symptoms haven’t improved in a day or 2 especially if the fever doesn’t break, take the person to the doctor IMMEDIATELY.
- Some doctors are recommending Cataflam. However, there was one fatality that’s linked to its usage so be cautious.
Go ahead and do your own research. See what works for other people. When you go to the doctor, ask questions. If you’re unsure about what they prescribed, go ahead and research it. If symptoms worsen with medication, then it’s best to stop.
Also, it’s very important to remember that while you’re experiencing this severe pain, try your best not to panic and do what is necessary. It will pass in a few days. Let’s work together in getting through this difficult time.
