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Diseases Caused by Viruses > Chikungunya

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Estimated time: 11 minutes
CISCE: Class 12

Introduction

Chikungunya is a viral disease first isolated in Tanzania in 1953, with an incubation period of 2 to 12 days (usually 3 to 7 days). "Silent" infections can also occur.

Causative Agent:

  • Caused by the Chikungunya virus (CHIKV).
  • Belongs to the genus Alphavirus in the family Togaviridae.

Chikungunya virus (CHIKV)

CISCE: Class 12

Symptoms

  • Acute febrile phase lasting 2 to 5 days (symptoms similar to dengue fever).
  • Prolonged joint pain (arthralgia) in extremities that can persist for weeks, months, or even years.
  • Swelling and stiffness of joints.
  • Muscular pain (myalgia), headache, fatigue (weakness), nausea, vomiting, and rash.
CISCE: Class 12

Transmission

  • Spreads through the bite of infected mosquitoes.
  • Primary vector: Aedes aegypti (an aggressive daytime biter).
  • Secondary vector (in Asia): Aedes albopictus.
  • Monkeys and other wild animals may serve as reservoirs for the virus.
CISCE: Class 12

Diagnosis

  • Confirmed via a simple blood test using ELISA or PCR to check for anti-chikungunya antibodies.
  • Immunoglobulin levels are highest in the first two weeks and remain present for about two months.
CISCE: Class 12

Treatment

  • No specific conventional treatment exists; care is mainly supportive (drugs for pain, swelling, and fever).
  • Homoeopathic treatments (like 'Genus Epidemicus') are noted as effective for both prevention during epidemics and long-lasting relief of post-chikungunya complaints.
  • Infected individuals should stay indoors under a mosquito net to avoid further spreading the virus.
CISCE: Class 12

Prevention

  • Prevent mosquito bites (use repellents, wear long sleeves/pants, install window/door screens).
  • Eliminate breeding sites (empty standing water in flower pots, buckets, and barrels; change water in pet dishes and birdbaths weekly).
  • Mosquito control measures, such as the introduction of Gambusia fish.
CISCE: Class 12

Key Points: Chikungunya

Aspect Chikungunya
Cause Viral disease caused by the chikungunya virus (Alphavirus)
Transmission Bite of infected Aedes aegypti or Aedes albopictus mosquito
Symptoms Sudden fever, severe joint pain, joint swelling, headache, muscle pain, rash
Diagnosis Blood test (ELISA or PCR) to detect antibodies or viral RNA
Treatment & Prevention No specific treatment; symptomatic relief, mosquito control and bite prevention
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