Chikungunya fever is a viral disease transmitted to humans by the bite of infected mosquitoes.Chikungunya virus is a member of the genus Alphavirus, in the family Togaviridae.Chikungunya fever is diagnosed based on symptoms, physical findings (e.g., joint swelling), laboratory testing, and the possibility of exposure to infected mosquitoes.There is no specific treatment for chikungunya fever; care is based on symptoms.Chikungunya infection is not usually fatal.Steps to prevent infection with chikungunya virus include use of insect repellent, protective clothing, and staying in areas with screens.Chikungunya virus was first isolated from the blood of a febrile patient in Tanzania in 1953, and has since been cited as the cause of numerous human epidemics in many areas of Africa and Asia and most recently in limited areas of Europe.Chikungunya PreventionThe best way to prevent chikungunya virus infection is to avoid mosquito bites.There is no vaccine or preventive drug currently available.Prevention tips are similar to those for other viral diseases transmitted by mosquitoes, such as dengue or West Nile.
* Use insect repellent containing DEET, Picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535 on exposed skin.Always follow the directions on the package.
* Wear long sleeves and pants (ideally treat clothes with permethrin or another repellent).
* Have secure screens on windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out.
* Get rid of mosquito sources in your yard by emptying standing water from flower pots, buckets and barrels.Change the water in pet dishes and replace the water in bird baths weekly.Drill h*les in tire swings so water drains out.Keep children's wading pools empty and on their sides when they aren't being used.
* Additionally, a person with chikungunya fever should limit their exposure to mosquito bites to avoid further spreading the infection.The person should use repellents when outdoors exposed to mosquito bites or stay indoors in areas with screChikungunya Symptoms and TreatmentChikungunya virus infection can cause a debilitating illness, most often characterized by fever, headache, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, muscle pain, rash, and joint pain.The term в
