Chikungunya virus is a mosquito-borne viral disease caused by the chikungunya virus (CHIKV), which is an RNA virus classified in the alphavirus genus of the Togaviridae family. It is transmitted primarily by infected female mosquitoes, particularly the Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus species. The term "chikungunya" comes from the Kimakonde language in Tanzania, meaning "that which bends up," referring to the severe joint pain that causes a bent posture in affected individuals. Key facts about chikungunya virus infection:
- The virus causes fever and severe joint pain, which can be debilitating and may last for days to months or even years.
- Other symptoms include joint swelling, muscle pain, headache, nausea, fatigue, and rash.
- Symptoms typically appear 4-8 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito.
- The disease can be mistaken for dengue or Zika due to similar symptoms.
- Most patients recover fully, but severe complications and deaths are rare and usually occur in newborns, older adults, or those with underlying health issues.
- There is no specific antiviral treatment; management focuses on relieving symptoms like fever and pain with medications such as paracetamol.
- Vaccines have been approved in some countries but are not yet widely available.
- Infection usually confers lifelong immunity.
The virus was first identified in Tanzania in 1952 and has since spread to over 110 countries across Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas. It is more prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions with populations of the mosquito vectors. Transmission occurs when a mosquito bites an infected person and later bites another person, passing on the virus. In summary, chikungunya virus is an RNA virus transmitted by mosquitoes that causes a fever and severe joint pain, sometimes leading to prolonged disability, with no specific antiviral treatment but supportive care to manage symptoms.
