Definition

Chikungunya is an infection spread by a bite from an infected mosquito.

Causes

Chikungunya is caused by a virus.

Risk Factors

The greatest risk factors for chikungunya are spending time in areas where chikungunya outbreaks have occurred, such as:

• Africa
• Southern Europe
• Southeast Asia
• Islands in the Indian and Pacific Oceans

As of late 2013, chikungunya was also identified in many Caribbean islands.

Symptoms

Symptoms begin 3-7 days after infection and may include:

• Fever
• Headache
• Joint pain, often in the hands and feet
• Joint swelling
• Muscle pain
• Rash

Diagnosis

You will be asked about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. You will be asked whether you have recently travelled to areas where chikungunya outbreaks have occurred.

Your bodily fluids may be tested for the presence of the virus or antibodies. Antibodies are created by your body in response to an infection. The virus and antibodies can be found with blood tests. Other blood tests may be done to look for complications.

Treatment

Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Options include:

Antibiotics are not needed because the chikungunya is caused by a virus, not bacteria. The goal is to ease the symptoms so that you feel more comfortable while the immune system fights the virus.

Rest and medication will help manage symptoms until the virus has passed. Also, drink plenty of liquids to help keep nasal fluid thin and easy to clear.

Note: Aspirin is not recommended for children or teens with a current or recent viral infection. This is because of the risk of Reye syndrome. Ask your doctor which medications are safe for your child.

Hospitalization may be required in severe cases to help manage symptoms.

Prevention

To help reduce your chance of getting chikungunya, take these steps:

• If possible, avoid travel to areas where chikungunya outbreaks are occurring, such as Africa, Southern Europe, Southeast Asia, Islands in the Indian and Pacific Oceans.
• Stay inside when mosquitoes are most active (at dawn and at dusk).
• Repair screens on your windows and doors to prevent mosquitoes from getting into your house.
• Use proper mosquito netting at night. Look for netting treated with insecticide.
• When outside, wear insect repellent, long pants, and long-sleeved shirts to limit exposure to bites.
• Eliminate insect breeding areas. These may include areas of standing water, like pet water bowls, rain barrels, and other containers.

World Health Organization http://www.who.int

Public Health Agency of Canada http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca

Chikungunya. Florida Health website. Available at:
http://www.floridahealth.gov/diseases-and-conditions/mosquito-borne-diseases/chikungunya.html
Accessed October 1, 2014.

Chikungunya. World Health Organization website. Available at:
http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs327/en
Updated March 2014. Accessed October 1, 2014.

Chikungunya fever. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at:
http://www.ebscohost.com/dynamed
Updated August 1, 2014. Accessed October 1, 2014.