Chikungunya: Symptoms, Causes, Prevention, and Care

What is Chikungunya?

Chikungunya is a mosquito-borne viral disease spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. It causes a sudden onset of fever and severe joint pain, along with symptoms like headache, muscle pain, joint swelling, and rash.

The disease shares some clinical signs with dengue and zika due to overlapping symptoms, hence, it can be misdiagnosed in areas where these viruses are common. There is currently no specific treatment, but supportive care helps manage symptoms. Vaccination is recommended for some travelers to affected areas.

Signs and Symptoms Chikungunya

According to Malaysia’s Ministry of Health, nearly 1,000 chikungunya cases were recorded in the first half of year 2020. 

Chikungunya is characterized by an abrupt onset of fever, frequently accompanied by joint pain. Other common signs and symptoms include:

• Muscle pain
• Headache
• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Rash

Joint pain caused by chikungunya is often severe and debilitating, lasting anywhere from a few days to a few weeks.

Most patients recover fully, but in some cases, joint pain may persist for several months or even years. Serious complications are not common, but in older individuals, the disease may contribute to the cause of death.

People who are at high risk for more severe disease include:

• Newborns are infected around the time of birth
• Older adults (> 65 years old)
• People with medical conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or heart disease

If you belong to the high risk group, seek treatment from healthcare professionals immediately upon infection.

Diagnosis of Chikungunya

Chikungunya shares similar symptoms with dengue and Zika (diseases spread by the same mosquitoes that transmit chikungunya).

Visit your healthcare provider if you are exhibiting any symptoms described above or if you live in or have visited an area at risk of chikungunya. Your healthcare provider may order a blood test to confirm the diagnosis.

Chikungunya Treatment

There is no specific antiviral medication for the treatment of chikungunya. Treatment is directed primarily at relieving the symptoms by:

• Getting plenty of rest
• Drinking plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration
• Take medicine such as acetaminophen or paracetamol to reduce fever and pain.
• Do not take aspirin and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
• If you are taking medicine for another medical condition, talk to your healthcare provider before taking additional medication.

Chikungunya Prevention

Mosquitoes bite throughout the day. Hence, the most effective way to prevent infection from the chikungunya virus is to prevent mosquito bites.

Here are some tips to prevent and control the spread of chikungunya:

• Use insect repellents
• Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants
• Take steps to control mosquitoes indoors and outdoors
1. Use screens on windows and doors, and repair holes in screens to keep mosquitoes outdoors
2. Use air conditioning, if available
3. Stop mosquitoes from laying eggs in or near water
4. Once a week, empty and scrub, turn over, cover, or throw out items that hold water, such as tires, buckets, planters, toys, pools, birdbaths, flowerpots, or trash containers 
5. Check indoors and outdoors for mosquitoes

Seek Expert Care for Chikungunya at Gleneagles Hospital Penang

If you're experiencing symptoms of chikungunya or have recently traveled to an affected area, consult our specialists at Gleneagles Hospital Penang. Early diagnosis and supportive care can help manage symptoms effectively. Book your appointment today.