Humans become infected with the chikungunya virus through mosquito bites. Fever and joint pain are two symptoms. Although it is rarely fatal, the symptoms can be very bad, very persistent, and very crippling.
What is chikungunya?
The virus that causes chikungunya fever is spread by the bite of female Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes. An RNA virus from the Togaviriade family, which belongs to the alphavirus genus, is the responsible agent. The word “chikungunya,” which means “to become deformed” or “to walk bent over,” comes from the Kimakonde language and refers to the stooped posture of those with joint pain.
Infection in this illness causes a quick onset of fever lasting two to twelve days as well as joint pain with or without modest joint enlargement. Although the joint pain is frequently severe, it typically only lasts a few days or weeks. Joint pain can occasionally last for several months. Additionally, some people get a rash.
What are the symptoms of chikanguniya?
The virus results in a short-lived fever and weeks- or months-long joint discomfort. Chikungunya symptoms resemble those of other illnesses including dengue fever. In most cases, the symptoms appear just a few days after a mosquito bite. The most typical signs are:
- Fever (which can occasionally reach 104°F)
- Joint pain
- Headache
- Soreness in the muscles
- Rash
- Swelling in the joints
What causes chikungunya?
Chikungunya is caused by a wide range of factors. It is brought on by the chikungunya virus, but the most frequent way for it to spread is by an Aedes mosquito bite. If bitten by a mosquito carrying the virus, people who reside in or visit places where it is present may get infected. After that, the virus enters the bloodstream and starts to cause symptoms like fever and joint discomfort. The most common chikungunya causes are listed below.
Chikungunya virus infection: The chikungunya virus is spread by mosquitoes and can result in fever, joint pain, and a rash. Chikungunya can occasionally result in more severe side effects, including meningitis or pneumonia.
Other causes: Viruses like dengue fever virus and the Zika virus can produce symptoms similar to those of chikungunya. In addition, several drugs (such as quinine) can also produce symptoms similar to chikungunya.
How is chikangunya diagnosed?
Since symptoms of chikungunya are frequently difficult to distinguish from those of other illnesses, only a blood test can provide a conclusive diagnosis. For the diagnosis of Chikungunya, two typical procedures are available: the detection of antibodies and the detection of viral RNA. Chikungunya RNA detection using RTPCR and Chikungunya IgM antibodies. IgM antibody detection is a screening test, and results that are positive should be verified by PCR. IgM antibodies increase within 3–4 days and can last for longer than 3 months. The best test is RTPCR because it is diagnostic and can identify infections early.
What is the treatment for chikangunya?
Although the virus is rarely lethal, its symptoms can be very bad and incapacitating. The majority of people get over their fever in a week, but joint pain might last for months. 20% of patients still experience persistent joint discomfort one year later.
Chikungunya treatment is not specifically done with medication; instead, doctors advise rest and drinking lots of fluids. Fever and joint pain can be reduced with over-the-counter drugs. These consist of:
- Naproxen
- Ibuprofen
- Acetaminophen
Physiotherapy can be beneficial for aches that remain longer.
Can Chikangunya be prevented?
Because mosquito bites are the most common mode of chikungunya transmission, avoiding mosquito contact is one of the greatest preventative measures. The following actions can be followed to stave off chikungunya:
- Using DEET (N, N-Diethyl-meta-toluamide) or picaridin-containing insect repellent on skin and clothing.
- Covering one's entire body with garments.
- Attempting to spend as much time indoors as you can, particularly in the morning and evening.
- Avoiding trips to places where epidemics are happening.
- It may be useful to use products that contain PMD (p-Menthane-3,8-diol) or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
- Using air conditioning to keep rooms cool prevents mosquitoes from entering.
- Sleeping with a mosquito net.
- Utilising pesticide vaporizers and mosquito coils.
You now understand what chikungunya is, how it spreads, and how to prevent it after reading this article. Take all necessary precautions to protect yourself from this illness, and see a doctor as soon as possible if you experience any Chikungunya-like symptoms.
Agilus Diagnostics, a subsidiary of Fortis Healthcare Limited
