what is chikungunya

Chikungunya is a mosquito-borne viral disease that causes fever and severe joint pain. The disease was first recognized in 1952 during an outbreak in southern Tanzania. It is caused by the chikungunya virus, which is transmitted to humans by the bites of infected female mosquitoes, most commonly Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus. The most common symptoms of chikungunya infection are fever and joint pain, with other symptoms including headache, muscle pain, joint swelling, and rash. Severe joint pain usually lasts a few days but can persist for months or even years. While most symptoms are generally self-limiting and last for 2–3 days, joint pain can be severe and disabling and may persist for months. There is currently no vaccine to prevent or medicine to treat chikungunya virus infection, but rest, fluids, and over-the-counter pain medications may relieve some symptoms. It is important for travelers to countries with chikungunya virus to protect themselves by preventing mosquito bites, such as using insect repellent and wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants.