Chikungunya infection is caused by the chikungunya virus, which is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito, primarily the female Aedes mosquito. This species is also responsible for spreading other viral diseases, such as dengue fever, yellow fever, and Zika virus. The mosquito becomes infected after feeding on the blood of someone who has chikungunya and can transmit the virus to others within a few days.
Chikungunya is prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions, particularly after periods of heavy rain when mosquito populations surge. Symptoms typically include fever, joint pain, and rash, and while most people recover fully, some may experience long-term joint pain. Prevention focuses on reducing mosquito exposure through measures such as using insect repellent, wearing protective clothing, and eliminating standing water where mosquitoes breed.
Chikungunya: Common Locations for Infection Risk
The primary way Australians contract the chikungunya virus is through overseas travel, particularly in regions where the virus is endemic. Many infections occur after being bitten by mosquitoes in popular destinations like Indonesia, especially Bali. Chikungunya is also prevalent in parts of Africa, Asia, and the Western Pacific, so travelers to these areas should take precautions to avoid mosquito bites, such as using insect repellent and wearing protective clothing.
In recent years, outbreaks of chikungunya have been reported more frequently in Indian Ocean and Pacific Island nations, including Papua New Guinea, as well as in regions like Italy and the Caribbean. While Aedes mosquitoes are present in Australia, they are not considered to be infected with the chikungunya virus. However, they can be found in northern Queensland, the Torres Strait Islands, and certain areas of central and southern Queensland, making it important for residents to remain vigilant about mosquito control and personal protection.
Recognizing Chikungunya: Key Symptoms to Watch For
Symptoms of chikungunya typically manifest 3 to 7 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito, although it can take up to 12 days for some individuals to show signs of infection. The hallmark symptoms include intense joint pain and fever, but other common symptoms may encompass:
- muscle pain;
- headache;
- a rash on the torso and limbs, which can persist for a week or longer;
- nausea;
- fatigue.
In some cases, symptoms can be mild enough to go unnoticed. While many people begin to feel better within 1 to 2 weeks, joint pain and inflammation can linger, sometimes lasting for months or even years, significantly affecting daily activities and quality of life. It’s important for those experiencing prolonged symptoms to seek medical attention for proper management and support.
Who Is at Risk of Severe Chikungunya Disease?
Most people infected with the chikungunya virus experience symptoms for a couple of weeks and recover without the need for specific treatment. However, certain groups are at higher risk of developing more severe illness. If you’re over 65, or have pre-existing conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or heart disease, you may be more vulnerable to complications. Newborn babies are also at increased risk of severe illness, especially if exposed to the virus shortly after birth. It’s important to seek medical care if you fall into any of these higher-risk categories.
Diagnosing and Treating Chikungunya: What You Need to Know
If you become unwell with a high fever after returning from a tropical destination, it’s important to see your doctor. They will conduct an examination and may order a blood test to confirm if you have chikungunya. Since symptoms can be similar to other mosquito-borne illnesses, such as dengue fever, Ross River virus, or Barmah Forest virus, misdiagnosis is possible.
There is no specific treatment for chikungunya, but pain relievers can help manage joint pain. Avoid aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) until dengue fever is ruled out, as these medications can increase the risk of bleeding with dengue. Additionally, if you have chikungunya, it’s essential to avoid mosquito bites during the first week of illness to prevent spreading the virus to others.
Preventing Chikungunya: Tips for Avoiding Mosquito Bites and Staying Safe
Preventing chikungunya relies on effective mosquito bite avoidance, as no vaccine currently exists for the virus. By taking simple precautions like using insect repellents, wearing protective clothing, and eliminating mosquito breeding grounds, you can significantly reduce your risk of infection. Staying vigilant, especially in areas prone to outbreaks, is key to staying safe from this mosquito-borne illness.
There is no vaccine to prevent chikungunya, so the best way to avoid infection is by preventing mosquito bites. To reduce the risk of bites:
- close windows and use insecticide sprays indoors to keep mosquitoes out;
- wear light-coloured, long-sleeved shirts and long trousers to cover exposed skin;
- apply insect repellent with DEET (diethyl toluamide) or picaridin—ask your pharmacist for the best options;
- use mosquito nets or screens, especially while sleeping;
- remove stagnant water from places like containers, gutters, or palm fronds where mosquitoes might breed.
If someone in your area contracts chikungunya, mosquitoes around you could become infected. It’s important to remove all potential breeding grounds and ensure everyone in the household uses insect repellent regularly to limit the spread of the virus.
Preventing chikungunya requires proactive steps to minimize mosquito exposure, especially in regions where the virus is common. By adopting protective measures like using repellents and eliminating standing water, you can lower your risk of infection. Staying informed and prepared helps keep both you and your community safe from chikungunya.