chikungunyavirus

Chikungunya virus is a mosquito-borne alphavirus that causes chikungunya fever, a disease that can lead to severe joint pain, fever, and rash. The virus is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes, primarily Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus. Outbreaks of chikungunya have occurred in Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas.

Symptoms typically appear 3 to 7 days after the mosquito bite and can include sudden onset of fever, severe joint pain which is often debilitating, muscle pain, headache, nausea, fatigue, and rash. The joint pain is the most prominent and characteristic symptom, often affecting the hands, wrists, ankles, and feet. While most people recover fully within a few weeks, some may experience persistent joint pain for months or even years.

Diagnosis is usually made based on clinical symptoms and confirmed by laboratory tests that detect antibodies to the virus or the virus itself. There is no specific antiviral treatment for chikungunya infection; treatment focuses on relieving symptoms, primarily pain and fever, with rest, fluids, and medications like ibuprofen or naproxen. Prevention is key and involves protecting oneself from mosquito bites through the use of insect repellent, wearing protective clothing, and eliminating mosquito breeding sites around homes.