Chikungunya – India
- September 28, 2021
- < 1 min read
Sudden increase in Chikungunya cases in the East Singhbhum district of India.
10 cases have been reported within a 48 hour span. Most patients have been treated and discharged. However, lack of education and awareness in the community remain a barrier in controlling the virus.
The district administration is meeting to combat the vector borne disease. They remind the public that overflowing garbage containers and heaps of garbage can serve as breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
Photo: Electron micrograph of Chikungunya virus.
Chikungunya is an infection caused by the Chikungunya virus, spread by two types of mosquitoes that both carry distinct white stripes on their legs and sides of their bodies.
Symptoms are generally flu-like with fever and joint pain. Usually the pain improves within a week, but occasionally the joint pain may last for months or even years. There is a small risk of death whit this disease.
While the disease typically occurs in Africa and Asia, outbreaks have been reported in Europe and the Americas since the 2000s.
The best means of prevention is overall mosquito control and the avoidance of bites in areas where the disease is common. Covering arms and legs when outdoor, is always a good idea. Insect repellents can also help. No specific treatment is available for this disease.
Chikungunya was first identified in 1952 in Tanganyika, current day Tanzania. The name of the disease originates from the Kimakonde language and means "that which bends up" or "to become contorted", indicating the severe joint pain and arthritic symptoms it can cause.
The first recorded outbreak of this disease may have been in 1779, molecular genetics confirm that this disease evolved around 1700.
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