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Best General Medicine Doctor in Kolkata - Dr. Mainak Malhotra
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Dr. Mainak Malhotra

Consultant - Internal Medicine Specialist

Manipal Hospitals, Mukundapur

What You Need to Know About Chikungunya Virus?

Posted On: Dec 06, 2024
blogs read 6 Min Read
Chikungunya Virus Disease : Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment

Chikungunya is a virus mainly spread by mosquitoes and can cause mild to severe symptoms. It has garnered attention recently due to its rapid spread in tropical and subtropical regions. By July 2020, 2,812 (15.2%) of the 18,533 cases clinically suspected of having the virus had laboratory-confirmed Chikungunya fever1. Although Chikungunya rarely results in death, its effects on health, especially the incapacitating joint pain, can have a major negative influence on one's quality of life. This blog will discuss the signs, causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of Chikungunya.

 

What is Chikungunya?

Chikungunya is a viral illness that is mainly spread to humans by the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito, notably the Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus. Discovered in Tanzania in the 1950s, the disease has subsequently spread throughout Asia, Africa, and the Americas.

Originating from the Kimakonde language, the term "Chikungunya" means "that which bends up," referring to the contorted position sometimes linked to severe joint pain. The illness can cause extreme discomfort and incapacitating symptoms, especially joint pain that can linger for weeks or even months, even though it is usually not fatal.

Symptoms of Chikungunya 

Chikungunya symptoms typically appear 4–8 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito, with a range of 2–12 days. While the severity can vary, the key symptoms include:

  • Fever: One of the earliest indications of a chikungunya infection is a sudden, high fever that can reach 102°F or 39°C.
  • Joint Pain: Severe joint pain and oedema are two of the primary symptoms. The discomfort can linger for weeks or even months and typically affects the hands, wrists, ankles, and feet.

  • Rash: A few days following a fever, a red rash frequently develops. Usually, it affects the arms, legs, and chest.

  • Muscle Pain: In addition to joint pain, there may be muscular aches and tiredness.

  • Headache: A lot of people get headaches, particularly when they have a fever.

  • Nausea and Vomiting: During the acute stage of the sickness, some patients may experience nausea or vomiting.

The severity and duration of each of these symptoms can differ. In particular, joint discomfort may be chronic and necessitate special care.

When to Seek Medical Attention

If you experience the symptoms mentioned above, such as fever, joint pain, or a rash, and have recently visited an area with an ongoing outbreak of chikungunya, it is important to see a healthcare provider. Do not forget to let our provider know about the travel, including the places you went.

How Chikungunya Spreads?

Chikungunya is primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito, specifically the Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus species. Both species lay their eggs in containers with standing water and are most active during daylight hours. Aedes aegypti can also be found indoors. The Chikungunya virus is not passed directly from person to person. Instead, mosquitoes pick it up when they bite someone who is already infected. To prevent further spread, individuals with chikungunya should avoid mosquito bites and refrain from travelling to outbreak areas.

When an uninfected mosquito bites a person with chikungunya, it ingests the virus and then multiplies inside the mosquito. After a few days, the virus reaches the mosquito's salivary glands, allowing it to transmit the virus to a new human host when it bites again. The virus replicates in the new host's body, and the cycle continues as the person can spread the virus to other mosquitoes.

Diagnosing Chikungunya

Clinical symptoms and a history of travel to regions where the disease is common are the main factors used to diagnose chikungunya. A medical professional will review your symptoms and perform a physical examination.

Tests for diagnosis

  • Blood Tests: The diagnosis can be verified by a blood test that looks for antibodies or the Chikungunya virus.

  • PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction): During the initial days of infection, PCR testing can identify the virus in the blood.

  • Serological Tests: Usually conducted after the first week of infection, these tests identify antibodies generated in response to the virus.

Treatment Options for Chikungunya

Chikungunya does not currently have a specific treatment. The main goal of management is symptom relief. Other treatment options include:

  • For fever and joint discomfort, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines (NSAIDs) such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be helpful.

  • Dehydration can be avoided by staying hydrated, particularly if you have a fever.

  • Orthotic devices or physical therapy may be suggested for chronic joint discomfort.

  • Additional therapies or interventions may be necessary in severe cases of joint pain, and pain management specialists may be called upon in certain situations.

Prevention of Chikungunya

The most effective protection against chikungunya is to stay away from mosquito bites. The following are preventive measures:

  • Application of Mosquito Repellents: Coat exposed skin with insect repellents that contain DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.

  • Wearing Protective Clothes: During periods of high mosquito activity, wear long-sleeved shirts and trousers.

  • Screens and Mosquito Nets: Use screens and mosquito nets when you sleep, especially in places where there is a high risk of transmission.

  • Removing Mosquito Breeding Grounds: Eliminate any standing water from tyres, containers, and other areas around your house where mosquitoes might develop.

  • Avoid going anywhere where there is a chikungunya outbreak if you are pregnant, especially if you are towards the end of your pregnancy. Serious issues could arise if your infant contracts the illness.

Chikungunya in Specific Populations

Different age groups are affected by chikungunya in different ways. In children, the symptoms are typically milder, but joint pain and fever can still cause significant discomfort and necessitate pain management and hydration. The elderly, however, often experience more severe symptoms, especially joint pain, which can limit mobility and may demand more care and medical management. People with underlying medical disorders, including diabetes or heart disease, are more vulnerable to infection-related consequences and should be continuously watched to ensure appropriate treatment and recovery.
 

Living with Chikungunya

It is crucial to look after yourself after recovering from chikungunya by continuing to rest, drinking plenty of water, and treating any lingering joint pain. Joint pain usually goes away over time, but for some people, it may persist for months. See a healthcare professional for further management alternatives, such as physical therapy or pain management techniques, if the pain becomes persistent or interferes with day-to-day activities.

Conclusion

Chikungunya is a debilitating illness caused by the Chikungunya virus and transmitted through mosquito bites. Several severe symptoms accompany it, including joint discomfort that can linger for weeks. Although there isn't a specific therapy for the illness, its effects can be significantly reduced by being aware of its signs, getting help when you need it, and avoiding mosquito bites. At Manipal Hospitals, Mukundapur, our skilled staff is committed to your well-being and offers professional diagnosis, all-encompassing care, and individualised treatment strategies.
 

FAQ's

As directed by your physician, you can use over-the-counter pain medicines (such as ibuprofen or paracetamol), apply warm compresses, and do mild exercise or physiotherapy to address joint pain following chikungunya. Consultation with a professional may be necessary for persistent pain.
 

In addition to medical treatment, managing chikungunya at home includes consuming a balanced diet to increase immunity, sleeping, staying hydrated, and using painkillers for fever and joint pain. For appropriate advice, always seek medical advice.

Along with Dengue and Zika, Chikungunya is one of the diseases spread by mosquitoes. The bite of an infected Aedes mosquito, which is most active during the day, is how it is transmitted.
 

The chikungunya virus is spread by the Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes. During the day, these mosquitoes bite and reproduce in standing water.
 

You can schedule an appointment at Manipal Hospitals, Mukundapur, by contacting us or visiting our website.

Visit: https://www.manipalhospitals.com/mukundapur/specialities/internal-medicine/
Contact no: 033 6907 0001
 

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