Chikungunya
Why it Matters?
WHO has raised a global alert over a fresh chikungunya outbreak spreading from the Indian Ocean region to parts of Asia, Africa, and Europe, echoing the 2004–05 epidemic.
What You Should Know?
It is transmitted to humans by the bites of infected female mosquitoes, most commonly Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes.
These two species can also transmit other viruses, including dengue and Zika viruses.
It has spread across India, Southeast Asia, and Africa, with local transmission in Europe (France, Italy).
Key symptoms include sudden high fever, severe joint pain, headache, fatigue, muscle pain, and skin rash.
High-risk groups are elderly, pregnant women, infants, immunocompromised individuals, and people with joint disorders.
There is no specific treatment or vaccine; only symptomatic relief is available.
Preventive measures include using insect repellents, wearing full-sleeve clothing, using mosquito nets, and eliminating stagnant water.
WHO warns that climate change and global travel may increase chikungunya outbreaks.
Vector control methods include removal of stagnant water, use of repellents, wearing long clothes, and installing mesh window screens.