Chikungunya Fever: Causes, Symptoms, How It Spreads And More

As summer approaches, the number of mosquitoes has noticeably increased in northern India, raising the risk of Chikungunya. This virus spreads through mosquito bites, and most people develop symptoms such as fever and joint pain within three to seven days of being bitten. Treatment primarily aims to manage these symptoms, and most individuals recover within a week.

What is chikungunya fever?

According to the Mayo Clinic website, Chikungunya (chik-un-GUN-yuh) fever is a viral illness transmitted by mosquitoes. The name translates to "bends you up" or "stooped walk" due to the severe joint and muscle pain it causes. This virus is part of the alphavirus group, which also includes others like the Mayaro virus and Ross River virus, known for causing similar diseases.

How common is chikungunya?

According to clevelandclinic.org, experts think the number of cases is underreported due to its symptoms similar to those of other illnesses. Originally confined to Africa and Asia, the virus has now spread globally, impacting over 110 countries.

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What are the symptoms of chikungunya?

Chikungunya symptoms typically appear 3 to 7 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito, though they may develop as early as two days or as late as 12 days. Common symptoms include a sudden high fever, headache, fatigue, rash, nausea, and red eyes.

A vaccine for chikungunya is approved in the United States, but no specific treatment exists for the infection. Serious complications or fatalities are rare, and most people recover within a few weeks.

How is it spread?

Mosquitoes infected with the chikungunya virus spread the disease through their bites. The virus does not pass directly from person to person. However, mosquitoes can become carriers after biting an infected individual. If you have chikungunya, protect others by avoiding mosquito bites and refraining from travel.

How to prevent yourself from Chikungunya?

The best way to prevent chikungunya is to avoid mosquito bites. Apply insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus to exposed skin. Wear long-sleeved clothing, trousers, and closed shoes to reduce skin exposure. Use mosquito nets and install screens on windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out of your home. Regularly empty containers such as buckets, flower pots, and birdbaths to eliminate stagnant water where mosquitoes can breed.

How to identify chikungunya mosquitoes?

Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes, recognised by their black and white striped bodies and legs, spread chikungunya through their bites.