Port Sudan versus Chikungunya

When Zeinab Bashir Abdallah, a resident of Port Sudan in the Red Sea State, contracted the Chikungunya fever, she knew exactly what she needed to do to survive.

Chikungunya fever is spread to humans through an infected mosquito called Aedes aegypti. The most common symptoms are high fever and joint pain.

“I personally had Chikungunya but soon I recovered because I took the medications and started to change the water every day and cleaning the containers.”

“When the health promoters invited us to be part of the community mobilization, we were eager to attend all the sessions because we believe it’s our responsibility to contribute to behavior change,” said Zeinab. 

Now, while also irrigating the plants, Zeinab ensures the water is well absorbed for extra precaution.

Afrah Hamza Saleh, Health Promotion Director ofRed Sea state, emphasized the importance of involving communities.

“We believe the communities’ role in preventing Chikungunya is bigger. This is why we want to ensure every family in Red Sea state is aware of the hygiene practices that will contribute to limiting the spread of the infected mosquitos,” said Afrah.

Other community members like Om Jumaa Musa, a tea seller originally from Eldalang in Kordofan, said information her family received following a visit from the health promotors, was critical in helping to improve her daughter’s condition.

“When my daughter had fever and joint pain I thought it might be Kankasha (Chikungunya), the first thing I did was take her to hospital and they gave her medications. The health promoters visited us twice at home and showed us how to clean the water containers, cover them with a piece of fabric and filter the water,” said Om Jumaa.

The type of assessment visit  are conducted on a daily basis by volunteers to monitor the situation.

Because of the comprehensive awareness raising efforts, many more community members are now able to take preventative measures and keep their families safe.