Chikungunya virus

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Chikungunya Virus

The Chikungunya virus (pronunciation: \chik-en-gun-ye\) is a virus that is primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. The term "Chikungunya" derives from the Kimakonde language, meaning "to become contorted", referring to the stooped appearance of sufferers due to joint pain.

Transmission

The Chikungunya virus is transmitted to humans by the bites of female mosquitoes of the Aedes species, particularly Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus. These mosquitoes also transmit other mosquito-borne viruses, including dengue fever and Zika virus.

Symptoms

The most common symptoms of Chikungunya virus infection are fever and joint pain. Other symptoms may include headache, muscle pain, joint swelling, or rash. Most patients feel better within a week, but in some people, the joint pain may persist for months.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of Chikungunya virus infection can be confirmed by performing serological tests, such as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA), or by testing the patient's blood or cerebrospinal fluid for the presence of the virus's RNA using reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR).

Treatment

There is no specific antiviral drug treatment for Chikungunya virus infection. Treatment is directed primarily at relieving the symptoms, including the joint pain using anti-pyretics, optimal analgesics and fluids.

Prevention

Prevention and control of Chikungunya virus infection primarily involves preventing mosquito bites and controlling the mosquito population.

See also

External links

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