3 more die in Cherthala; toll 85

Alappuzha, Oct 6 (UNI) Three more people died of suspected Chikungunya in the Cherthala taluk here today, taking to 85 the death toll in the viral fever outbreak in the area.

While the three showed symptoms of Chikungunya such as fever, joint pains and other related symptoms, the definite cause of death could be stated only after an autopsy, health officials said.

While Dillip, 22, of Kanjikuzhy panchayat died in the Cherthala taluk hospital this morning, Sivadas, 48, of Pallipuram panchayat, died at the Alappuzha Medical College and Pushpa, 40, of Thaneermukham, died at home.

Nearly 1,000 people reported at the Cherthala taluk hospital today also with fever while more than 600 patients are admitted for treatment.

Following heavy rains and complaints of breathing problems by people due to use of Melatheon for fogging, these operations were minimal today.

Union Health Minister Anbumani Ramdoss had visited Cherthala area this morning and promised all Central assistance to Kerala to tackle the Chikungunya outbreak.

UNI XR ARC DK1930