Caracas, September 18 (Xinhua-RHC) -- Venezuelan Health Minister Nancy Perez has confirmed 398 cases of chikungunya virus and 45,745 cases of dengue virus in the country, state media reported.

"Among the 1,200 suspected cases of chikungunya (virus) in Venezuela, 398 people tested positive and confirmed by laboratories, (and) similarly we have confirmed 45,745 cases of dengue (virus) in the country," said Perez during a gathering at the ministry's headquarters in Caracas.

Three people infected with chikungunya virus have died with a pre-existing ailment, she said.

The government plans to intensify its campaign to eradicate the mosquitoes that spread the diseases to prevent more cases, the Venezuelan News Agency reported.

Perez has called on the public to make efforts for the mosquito control, as discarded tires with foul water and lidless water containers are good for breeding of the Aedes mosquito.

According to Perez, 922,800 cases of dengue virus and 715,915 cases of chikungunya virus have been registered with 20 deaths reported throughout the Americas.

The chikungunya virus is rarely fatal. People infected by the virus typically suffer acute fever, joint pain, swelling, muscle aches, headaches or rash. Patients usually recover in about a week, although some people suffer long-term joint pain. There is no vaccine nor specific treatment for it.

Transmitted by the Aedes mosquito, the dengue virus is hardly life-threatening. The symptoms of the virus include fever, headache, muscle and joint pains.

There is no approved drug for the virus but the first vaccine from Sanofi company could reach the market late next year.