Chikungunya
This fact sheet answers frequently asked questions about the chikungunya virus.
Chikungunya is a virus spread to people by mosquitoes.
-
-
Have questions or want to connect?
-
1010 Massachusetts Ave.
Boston, MA 02118
The basics
What is chikungunya?
Chikungunya exists in countries all over the world. Mosquitoes in the United States do not carry chikungunya. It is possible that chikungunya may spread to mosquitoes in new areas, including the United States. For the most up-to-date information of where Chikungunya is a risk, visit the CDC.
How is chikungunya spread?
Chikungunya spreads to people through mosquito bites. Mosquitoes get chikungunya when they bite a person who is already sick. The mosquitoes that spread chickungunya usually bite during the day.
Symptoms
What are symptoms of chikungunya?
Symptoms usually develop 3-7 days after the initial bite. Symptoms include fever, joint pain, headache, muscle pain, joint swelling, or rash. Most people develop some symptoms, usually fever and joint pain. Although chikungunya rarely results in death, symptoms can become severe. Most people will get better within one week, but joint pain can last for months.
How is chikungunya diagnosed?
If you develop symptoms as described above, see your health care provider immediately. Tell your health care provider if you have traveled recently. He or she may take a blood test to look for signs of chikungunya or other similar diseases.
Prevention
How can I help prevent chikungunya?
If you plan to travel to a country with chikungunya or if you have family living in one of these countries, consider the following tips. These may also help to prevent the spread of other mosquito-borne illnesses in Boston.
Prevent mosquito bites
While outdoors in an area with mosquitoes:
- Use a mosquito repellent. Repellents approved by the EPA include those containing DEET, oil of lemon eucalyptus, Picaridin or IR3535. Follow the directions on the product label
- If you use a product containing DEET, do not use concentrations of more than 30% on adults and use low concentrations on children. Apply DEET to exposed skin (not eyes or mouth) and on clothes, but do not use on open cuts or wounds. Do not apply underneath clothes
- Do not let children apply repellents to themselves. Apply the repellent to your hands and rub it on the child. Do not apply repellents to children’s eyes, mouth, or hands and use it cautiously around ears. Do not apply DEET on infants or oil of lemon eucalyptus on children under 3 years of age
- Wear protective clothing such as long sleeved shirts, long pants, and socks
- Use air conditioning or window/door screens to keep mosquitoes outside. If needed, sleep under a mosquito bed net
Mosquitoes need water to breed. Young mosquitoes (larvae) live in water before growing into adults that can fly. Empty any items that collect water at least once a week to prevent mosquito breeding.
- Containers: Turn over or cover unused flower pots, buckets, garbage cans, and wheelbarrows. Change water in birdbaths once a week
- Gutters: Remove leaves and other debris that can clog gutters and trap water
- Pools: Cover unused swimming pools and turn over kiddie pools when not in use. Be sure to keep swimming pool covers clear of leaves and water. Keep large pools treated and circulating
- Old Tires: Cover or dispose of them. They are a favorite mosquito-breeding site
Treatment
How is chikungunya treated?
There is currently no treatment for chikungunya. Proper care can help relieve symptoms, including getting plenty of rest and drinking fluids to prevent dehydration. Some medication can help relieve fever and pain, including ibuprofen, naproxen, acetaminophen, or paracetamol.
Who is at risk for chikungunya?
Anyone exposed to mosquito bites in a country with chikungunya is at risk of getting sick. People at most risk for severe illness from chikungunya include newborns, persons 65 or older, and people with certain medical conditions.
-
-
Have questions or want to connect?
-
1010 Massachusetts Ave.
Boston, MA 02118
