A-Z about Chikungunya

#1. What is a chikungunya?

Chikungunya is an ailment caused by a virus that spreads through mosquitoes bites.

 

#2. What is chikungunya virus?

The virus of Chikungunya was first described in East Africa in 1952.  The virus is transmitted in humans by mosquitoes.

#3. Where is chikungunya virus most prevalent?

Chikungunya virus has been mainly testified in Africa, Asia, Europe and recently it has spread to the U.S.A.

#4. How is Chikungunya virus transmitted?

1. Humans are infected when mosquitoes, containing Chikungunya virus, bite humans.
2. The viruses are transmitted during the mosquito bite (blood meal).
3. The viruses then multiply in humans.

#5. What are the symptoms?

• The most common symptoms are fever and joint pain.
• Other signs may include muscle pain, headache, joint swelling, etc.

#6. How to diagnose it? 

• The symptoms of chikungunya are similar to dengue and zika.
• Visit your doctor, if you develop the symptoms described above.
• Or have visited an area where chikungunya is active.
• Your doctor may suggest you for a blood test.

#7. Its treatments:-

• Take full rest.
• Drink fluids to prevent chances of dehydration.
• Take medicine such as paracetamol to reduce fever and pain.

#8. Precautions to take:-

• Get rid of stagnant water
• Use net to protect yourself from mosquitoes.
• Use mosquito repellants.
• Wear clothes that cover you fully.
• Keep your home and surroundings clean.

#9. Is there any medicine for Chikungunya?

There is no vaccine currently available to cure chikungunya.

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#10. Is Chikungunya virus infection contagious?

The virus of chikungunya is not considered as a contagious disease. This is because there is no direct transfer of chikungunya viruses from human to human.

But, in rear cases the chikungunya viruses may be transmitted from a mother to her newborn baby. Plus in some cases, it is also transferred by blood transfusion from an infected person.

#11. Is Chikungunya cause death?

Chikungunya disease does not cause death, but the symptoms can be severe and disabling.

#12. Who are more affected by Chikungunya?

• Newborn babies
• Older adult (≥65 years)
• People who are having high blood pressure, diabetes or heart related diseases.

Extra points:-

• If you are suffering from chikungunya, do not take aspirin and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
• Tell your doctor about the medicines you are already taking for medical conditions.

 

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