Chikungunya

What is Chikungunya?

Chikungunya is a viral disease transmitted by female Aedes species mosquitoes. It causes fever and joint pain that stays for a long time. It is an RNA virus that belongs to the alphavirus genus of the Togaviridae family. This virus can also be transmitted through infected blood and can multiply itself in various cells of the body. Chikungunya even shares some clinical signs with dengue and zika virus. Correct diagnosis is one of the most important elements in diagnosing the disease and distinguishes it from dengue because both diseases happen by the bite of the same mosquito
The symptoms of Chikungunya are similar to those of dengue fever. Only a proper blood test can decide if it is Chikungunya or dengue fever. Following are few symptoms that can indicate the presence of Chikungunya:
  • Fever
  • Severe muscle ache
  • Constant headache
  • Full body itching & rash
  • Extreme pain in all joints
  • Pain in fingertips and palm mounts
  • Weakness
    • Vomiting
    Humans are the natural host of the chikungunya virus. It spreads among humans by a bite of an infected female mosquito of the Aedes species. They are the mosquitoes of the tropical and subtropical regions carrying the virus of dengue.
  • Risk of dehydration
  • Long-term body pain
  • Risk of death
  • Risk of blood cell depletion
  • Risk of infection spread</Keeping proper hygiene around.
  • Covering the nose while sneezing.
  • Staying protected from mosquitoes.
  • Using mosquito repellents.
  • Stopping water stagnation.
  • Keeping the skin covered as much as possible.
  • Wearing full sleeve clothes all the time.

    • How it is diagnosed?

  • Virus isolation by cell culture
  • RT-PCR (Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction) to see viral RNA
  • Serological test

    • How it is treated?

    There is no vaccine to prevent or medicine to treat chikungunya virus. Treat the symptoms:
  • Get plenty of rest.
  • Drink fluids to prevent dehydration.
  • Take medicine such as acetaminophen or paracetamol to reduce fever and pain.
  • Do not take aspirin and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS until dengue can be ruled out to reduce the risk of bleeding).
  • If you are taking medicine for another medical condition, talk to your healthcare provider before taking additional medication.
  • If you have chikungunya, prevent mosquito bites for the first week of your illness.
  • During the first week of infection, chikungunya virus can be found in the blood and passed from an infected person to a mosquito through mosquito bites.
  • An infected mosquito can then spread the virus to other people.

    • How does JIMCH provide care?

    Consult with experienced doctors

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