Chikungunya Virus | Chikungunya Disease

Mosquito Borne Diseases

Believe it or not, mosquitoes lead the list of the most deadly animals in the world, ahead of lions, elephants, hippos, and crocs. It’s estimated that 600,000 people die each year of malaria alone, only one of several important mosquito transmitted diseases. Fortunately, malaria was eradicated in the U.S. many years ago through strong public health efforts and effective mosquito control. But this doesn’t mean we’re free of risks of mosquito borne disease today.

Make a selection to learn more about the most important potential diseases carried by mosquitoes in your community.

West Nile

Dengue Fever

Chikungunya

Zika

CHIKUNGUNYA

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CHIKUNGUNYA

Common symptoms are fever and joint pain. The African name “Chikungunya” means “that which bends over”, referring to the debilitating joint and muscle pain which often accompanies infection.

Other symptoms include headache, muscle pain, and joint swelling or rash.

Symptoms similar to Dengue fever and Zika virus, so a medical test may be needed to confirm infection.

Most better in a week, but joint pain may last months. Rest and drink fluids to prevent dehydration.

Avoid non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs unless doctor rules out Dengue fever. Use acetaminophen for pain and fever.

You are infectious to mosquitoes the first week of infection with Chikungunya virus, so protect yourself from mosquito bites while you are sick.

Chikungunya carried by:
Aedes aegypti and probably Aedes albopictus

For more information visit www.cdc.gov/chikungunya

Chikungunya Symptoms

Headache

Fever

Muscle pain

Rash

Joint pain and swelling

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Chikungunya

Chikungunya is a virus first known from Africa. The name literally means “that which bends up” and refers to the severe joint pain that often accompanies the illness. The most common symptoms are fever and joint pain, followed by headache, muscle pain, joint swelling, or rash. Most people get better within
a week, but joint pain may persist for months. Most people infected with chikungunya do feel sick. Symptoms usually start within 3-7 days of the bite.