Chikungunya

Chikungunya is a viral infection transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, causing fever and often severe, sometimes prolonged joint pain. It is rarely fatal but can cause significant, lasting discomfort.

• Sudden onset of high fever
• Severe joint pain, often affecting multiple joints symmetrically, and sometimes severe enough to limit movement
• Muscle pain and headache
• A rash in some cases
• Joint pain can persist for weeks to months after the acute illness in some people

• Caused by the chikungunya virus, transmitted through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes, the same species that transmits dengue.
• Risk is highest in areas with standing water where these mosquitoes breed.

• Suspected clinically based on the combination of sudden fever and severe joint pain, particularly during a local outbreak.
• Blood testing for the virus or antibodies can confirm the diagnosis where available.
• Distinguishing from dengue can be difficult clinically, as both are mosquito-borne with overlapping symptoms; testing helps clarify the diagnosis when needed.

There is no specific antiviral treatment; management is supportive with rest, fluids, and pain relief.

Paracetamol is preferred for fever and pain; NSAIDs and aspirin are generally avoided until dengue has been ruled out, since both illnesses can present similarly and NSAIDs carry a bleeding risk if dengue is actually present.

Persistent joint pain after the acute illness may benefit from physiotherapy and ongoing pain management, and can take weeks to months to fully resolve in some people.

Most people recover fully, though joint symptoms can be prolonged and disabling in some cases.

• Eliminate standing water around homes to reduce mosquito breeding sites.
• Use mosquito repellent and protective clothing, particularly during the day.
• Use window and door screens or mosquito nets.
• Support community vector-control efforts during local outbreaks.