Chikungunya

What is Chikungunya?

Chikungunya is a viral disease transmitted by female mosquitoes. It causes fever and bad joint pain that stays for a long time. It is an RNA virus that belongs to the alphavirus genus of the Togaviridae family. This virus can also be transmitted through infected blood and has the capability to multiply itself in various cells of the body. Chikungunya even shares some clinical signs with dengue and zika virus. Correct diagnosis is one of the most important elements in diagnosing the disease, and distinguishes it from dengue because both diseases happen by the bite of the same mosquito.

Symptoms

The symptoms of chikungunya are similar to those of dengue fever. Only a proper blood test can decide if it is chikungunya or dengue fever. Following are few symptoms that can indicate the presence of chikungunya:

  • Severe muscle ache.
  • Constant headache.
  • Full body itching.
  • Extreme pain in all joints.
  • Pain in finger tips and palm mounts.
  • Weakness.

Causes

Humans are natural host of the chikungunya virus. It spreads among humans by a bite of an infected female mosquito of the Aedes species. They are the mosquitoes of the tropical and subtropical regions carrying the virus of dengue.

Risks

The risks of Chikungunya include:

  • Risk of dehydration.
  • Long term body pain.
  • Risk of death.
  • Risk of blood cell depletion.
  • Risk of infection spread.

Prevention

To reduce the possibility of Chikungunya, one should adopt the following measures:

  • Keeping proper hygiene around.
  • Covering the nose while sneezing.
  • Staying protected from mosquitoes.
  • Using mosquito repellents.
  • Stopping water stagnation.
  • Keeping the skin covered as much as possible.
  • Wearing full sleeve clothes all the time.

How is it treated?

At Medanta,  the following treatment method is used to treat Chikungunya:

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  • Symtomatic treatment

    It is treated symptomatically, with bed rest, and medicines to counteract the symptoms of fever and aches. Aspirin should be strictly avoided. Do not take any medicines without consulting a doctor.

When do I contact the doctor?

If fever is consistent for a long time, and the patient is suffering from extreme headache, muscle and joint pain, and the body starts becoming red due to rashes, he/she should immediately consult a doctor. Also, if it is within a short period like 5 to 6 hours, he/she should consult a doctor.

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How does Medanta provide care?

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Consult with experienced doctors

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