Public Health confirms presence of chikungunya virus

Santo Domingo.- Public Health minister Freddy Hidalgo confirmed Friday a chikungunya virus outbreak in San Cristobal (south), backed by an antivirus lab report from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC).

He said blood samples from people with fever and sharp aches in joints sent to the CDC tested positive for the chikungunya virus.

The official said measures to prevent and contain outbreaks of the disease transmitted by mosquitoes have been implemented nationwide.

Hidalgo said people can help eliminate the mosquito’s breeding sites by adding chlorine to water and the walls of tanks or other containers and cover them tightly.