TACLOBAN CITY — Chikungunya cases in Samar have risen to 259, with infections reported in three municipalities, according to the Samar Provincial Health Office (PHO).

As of 11 July, Basey recorded 159 cases, Gandara 97, and Paranas three. No deaths have been reported.

Most cases were concentrated in two barangays: Barangay Mabini in Basey with 128 cases and Barangay Ngoso in Gandara with 51.

The PHO recorded nine cases in February, six in May, 190 in June, and 54 cases from 1 to 11 July, indicating a sharp increase in recent weeks.

In response, the PHO issued a health advisory urging households to eliminate mosquito breeding sites by cleaning their surroundings, removing stagnant water, and practicing proper waste disposal. Barangays were also encouraged to strengthen community-based mosquito control measures.

Chikungunya is a viral disease transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, which also spread dengue and Zika. Symptoms include the sudden onset of fever and severe joint pain that can last from several days to weeks.

Despite the increase in cases, the PHO said attack rates remain relatively low at 28 cases per 100,000 population in Basey and 27 per 100,000 in Gandara. The disease has affected all age groups, with higher incidence among individuals aged 10 to 19 and those 60 years old and above.