Chickungunya is a viral infection transmitted via the bite of mosquitoes infected with Aedes albopictus and aegypti .

It cannot be transmitted from person to person via contact or bodily fluids.

However, rare transmission cases through infected blood have been reported.

“chikungunya" means "bent over," describing the joint pain it causes.

Symptoms and Transmission

The primary symptoms of chikungunya include

• Fever
• Joint pain
• Headache
• Muscle pain
• Swelling
• Rash
• Fatigue

Symptoms typically emerge 3 to 7 days after a mosquito bite but can range from mild to severe.

Though rare, complications can occur in older adults and those with underlying conditions like diabetes or heart disease.

Chikungunya does not spread through casual contact, but a mosquito that bites an infected person during the first week of illness can carry the virus and infect others.

Global Spread and Comparison with Other Viruses

Once confined to Africa and Asia, chikungunya is reported in more than 110 countries worldwide.

Although the same species of mosquitoes spread chikungunya, dengue, and Zika and have similar symptoms, they are distinct viruses.

Doctors often test for all three if a person has symptoms after traveling to an affected area.

Prevention and Treatment

In 2023, the FDA approved the chikungunya vaccine IXCHIQ for adults at high risk of exposure, but prevention remains essential for everyone.

To avoid infection, use

• Insect repellents
• Wear protective clothing
• Eliminate stagnant water
• Stay indoors in outbreak areas

There is no specific cure for chikungunya, so Treatment primarily aims to alleviate symptoms through rest, staying hydrated and pain relievers.

Avoid NSAIDs until a diagnosis is confirmed, as these can complicate conditions like dengue.

Prognosis and Long-term Effects

Most people recover from chikungunya within a week, but some experience chronic joint pain lasting months or even years.

Severe complications, while rare, can affect the heart, eyes, or nervous system.

There is no evidence of chikungunya transmission through breast milk or from pregnant individuals to their babies, although infection near delivery may affect newborns.

Once infected, most people are thought to develop immunity, reducing the risk of future infections.

Conclusion

Chikungunya is a global health concern but can be prevented and managed with appropriate precautions. To minimize your risk of infection, keep yourself informed about outbreaks, avoid mosquito bites, and consider vaccination if you are at high risk.

Suspect chikungunya after travel? Schedule a check-up with your doctor today!