Chikungunya, Another Dangerous Disease Spread by Mosquitoes

• Chikungunya disease is spread by mosquitoes and has symptoms similar to dengue fever.
• Sufferers experience an acute fever alongside joint and muscle pain as well as a red rash on the arms and legs, red eyes, headaches, exhaustion, vomiting and diarrhea.
• Pregnant women who suffer from the disease are at risk of passing the disease onto their unborn child.

In addition to carrying dengue fever, mosquitoes are also capable of spreading chikungunya disease. Both diseases are equally dangerous, especially when contracted by children with the distinct possibility of complications and symptoms affecting vital organs, such as the liver, kidneys and heart.

Chikungunya disease is caused by the chikungunya virus, which belongs to the Togaviridae family of viruses. Both the Aedes albopictus and Aedes aegypti species of mosquito can be carriers of this virus while cases are common in both urbanized and rural areas. The disease usually spreads during the monsoon season or in areas containing stagnant water, with the mosquitoes that carry the disease often venturing out to feed during the daytime, meaning that children who enjoy playing outside the home or in school playgrounds are most at risk of contracting the disease. Moreover, pregnant women who have contracted chikungunya are at risk of passing the disease onto their unborn child.

• Acute fever that may reach up to 40 degrees Celsius, which usually begins to improve after around 2–3 days.
• Joint pain, muscle fatigue and joint inflammation, with adults more likely to suffer these symptoms than children, but which tends to improve within two weeks. In patients over the age of 45, the disease may cause chronic joint pain.
• Red rash on the arms and legs or throughout the body
• Red eyes
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea, vomiting and headaches
• Exhaustion or diarrhea

• Drink plenty of water and avoid allowing the body to become dehydrated. Get lots of rest
• Eat a healthy, balanced diet
• Strictly adhere to the course of medication prescribed by your doctor.

The most important aspect in the prevention of chikungunya disease is to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes, which can be achieved by:

• Ensuring the home is clean and free from sources of stagnant water that could attract breeding mosquitoes.
• Organizing your garden to be an airy space that allows in plenty of sunlight. Sleeping in a room that has mosquito protection on the windows.
• Wearing long sleeve tops, long pants and mosquito repellent during chikungunya outbreaks, even during daylight hours.

Although chikungunya disease is not fatal and is also less severe when compared to dengue fever, it is still a condition that is capable of being detrimental to our bodies.This is especially the case in those with low immunity, such as infants and the elderly, with these groups being at risk of developing complications that are difficult to treat. Hence, taking good care of your health by eating a healthy diet, getting plenty of rest and exercising regularly are crucial, as is consulting a doctor regarding a thorough diagnosis and effective treatment should you experience a high fever, loss of appetite, dehydration, etc.