Introduction
Chikungunya is a
mosquito-borne viral disease describes the stunted form of people suffering
from joint pain (arthralgia). Chikungunya is characterized by sudden onset of
fever causing joint pain.
Causes
Chikungunya occurs in
humans by the bite of infected female mosquitoes. Typically, the mosquitoes
involved are Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus, two species that can transmit
other mosquito-borne viruses including dengue. These mosquitoes can be found
biting during the daylight hours, although activity peaks may occur in the
early morning and afternoon.
Symptoms
Common signs and
symptoms include muscle aches, headaches, nausea, fatigue, and rash. Joint pain
is often very weak, but usually lasts for a few days or maybe
prolonged for weeks, but in some cases, joint pain may persist for several
months or years.
Diagnostic techniques
Several methods can be
used for diagnosis. Serological tests, such as enzyme-linked immunosorbent
assay (ELISA), can confirm the presence of IgM and IgG anti-chikungunya
antibodies. The samples collected during the first week after the onset of
symptoms should be tested by serological and virological methods (RT-PCR).
Treatment is primarily
directed at relieving symptoms, including antipyretics, optimal analgesics,
and joint pain using fluids. There is no commercial chikungunya vaccine.
Prevention techniques
Prevention methods
include:
Reducing the number of
container habitats filled with natural and artificial waters that support
breeding of mosquitoes.
During an outbreak, insecticides can be sprayed
to kill flying mosquitoes.
Clothing that reduces
skin exposure. Repellents can be applied inside the skin or on clothing
according to product label instructions.
Mosquito coils or
other pesticide vaporizers can also reduce indoor bites.
