What is Chikungunya Fever

What is Chikungunya Fever?

What is Chikungunya Fever

Chikungunya is a viral illness transmitted by the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito. While it is not typically fatal, it can cause significant debilitation. Its symptoms, similar to dengue fever, include fever, intense and enduring joint pain, body rash, and headache. Joint discomfort may persist for months in some cases, and full recovery can take a long time. Typically, immunity after infection lasts a lifetime, making reinfection rare.

The disease was first identified in 1952 on the Makonde Plateau in Africa, with its name derived from the Makonde language, meaning “that which bends up,” referring to the characteristic stooped posture due to joint pain.

Chikungunya outbreaks tend to occur every 7-8 years, with numerous outbreaks reported in Asia and Africa between 1960 and 1980. In recent years, countries such as India, Indonesia, the Maldives, and Thailand have experienced regular outbreaks. Despite its non-fatal nature, many cases likely go unreported due to misdiagnosis, as its symptoms overlap with those of dengue fever. Consequently, the actual number of chikungunya cases is likely higher than reported.