Chikungunya Virus

Chikungunya Virus: What You Need to Know

Chikungunya virus is an illness spread by mosquitoes, most commonly in tropical and subtropical regions across Africa, Asia, the Indian subcontinent, Pacific islands, and the Americas.

The main mosquito responsible is the Aedes species, which bites mostly during the day.

Symptoms of Chikungunya

• The most common symptoms are sudden fever and severe joint pain (especially in the hands and feet).
• Other symptoms may include headaches, muscle pain, rash, and fatigue.
• Most people recover within a week, but joint pain can sometimes last for months. Serious complications are rare.

Protecting Yourself from Mosquito Bites While Abroad

To lower your risk of catching chikungunya and other mosquito-borne illnesses:

• Wear insect repellent: Use repellents containing DEET or icaridin on exposed skin. Reapply as directed, especially after swimming or sweating.
• Dress carefully: Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and socks to cover skin as much as possible.
• Use nets and screens: Sleep under insecticide-treated mosquito nets and stay in rooms with window/door screens or air conditioning. This helps keep mosquitoes out.
• Avoid mosquito hotspots: Aedes mosquitoes breed in standing water around homes (plant pots, buckets, etc.), so avoid these areas if possible.
• Vaccination: Two vaccines are now available for some travelers. Discuss with a healthcare provider to see if you should be vaccinated before traveling.

What to Do If You Get Bitten

If you are bitten by mosquitoes while traveling:

• Clean the area with soap and water.
• Apply a cool compress to reduce swelling and itching.
• Over-the-counter remedies: Anti-itch creams (such as 1% hydrocortisone) and oral antihistamines (like cetirizine or loratadine) can help ease itchiness.
• For chikungunya symptoms (sudden fever and joint pain), rest, drink plenty of fluids, and take paracetamol for pain. Avoid aspirin or ibuprofen.
• See a doctor if you develop high fever, severe joint pain, or feel very unwell, especially if you’ve recently visited a country where chikungunya is common.
• Do not scratch bites; this can lessen your risk of infection.

Chikungunya can make you feel quite unwell for several days, but most people recover fully. Taking steps to prevent mosquito bites is the best way to protect yourself while traveling.

 

 

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Health Update with Dr Rosie