What is the Chikungunya virus? -

The Chikungunya virus has been in the news lately as individuals who took the vaccine to prevent it were hospitalized. Many people have never heard of the Chikungunya virus and need to know more. In this gallery, we'll explore what causes it, how to treat it, and prevention methods.

Curious what the Chikungunya virus is and if you should be concerned? Click through now.

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Chikungunya virus -

The Chikungunya virus, or CHIKV, is a mosquito-borne virus. Primarily, it's spread by the Aedes mosquito, which is also known for transmitting dengue and the Zika virus.

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Where has the Chikungunya virus been reported? -

The virus has been found in regions ranging from the Americas and Asia to Africa and Europe. It also has spread to islands in the Pacific Ocean.

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How is the Chikungunya virus transmitted? -

The Chikungunya virus is spread through the bite of an affected Aede mosquito, predominately during the day.

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When can Chikungunya virus be detected? -

The Chikungunya virus can be detected in the first week of illness. This is possible by using reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) tests.

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Detecting Chikungunya virus after the first week -

After the virus leaves the bloodstream, it's possible to confirm past infections via antibody tests.

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Common symptoms of Chikungunya virus -

Chikungunya virus's notable symptoms include fever and joint pain. Many also experience fatigue, body aches, and flu-like symptoms.

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Additional symptoms of Chikungunya virus -

Some people who have Chikungunya virus will develop pain in their muscles, headaches, or skin rashes.

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When do symptoms appear? -

Symptoms typically develop two to 12 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. The illness usually lasts between three and 10 days, but joint pain can persist longer.

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How does Chikungunya virus start? -

Chikungunya virus normally starts with a sudden high fever. It can be continuous or intermittent. Additionally, severe joint pain follows, making movement difficult for many patients.

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Duration of joint pain -

Joint pain from the Chikungunya virus typically subsides after a few days. However, for some, pain can linger for weeks or years.

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Severe cases and chronic symptoms -

In severe cases, Chikungunya virus can lead to chronic joint inflammation and disability. Those with pre-existing conditions are at greater risk of long-term effects.

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Rare but possible symptoms -

Though it's not common, some individuals might experience nausea, vomiting, back pain, and redness around the eyes.

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Skin and mucous membrane involvement -

Chikungunya virus can affect the skin and mucous membranes, which can lead to rashes, ulcers, and pigmentation changes. Skin symptoms typically appear within the first few days of the illness.

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Characteristics of Chikungunya rash -

If a rash appears, it is often red and maculopapular (flat, discolored spots and raised bumps). Usually, it happens on the face or limbs and can last up to 10 days.

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Severe skin reactions and ulcers -

In very rare cases, painful ulcers in the mouth or groin can occur. They resemble canker sores and can be very uncomfortable.

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Other skin complications -

Severe skin reactions such as vesiculobullous eruptions (blisters), hemorrhagic lesions (bleeding under the skin), and peeling can occur.

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Chikungunya virus and pre-existing skin conditions -

People with pre-existing skin disorders, such as psoriasis or lichen planus, may experience flare-ups. Secondary bacterial infections can also complicate skin recovery.

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Treatment options for Chikungunya virus -

There aren't any medications to treat Chikungunya virus, so managing symptoms and staying hydrated is key.

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Self-limiting nature of Chikungunya virus -

Most of the time, the body fights off the virus on its own, and symptoms will gradually improve.

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Prevention: avoiding mosquito bites -

Since there isn't a treatment, preventing mosquito bites is your best bet. Protective measures can help.

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Insect repellents and their active ingredients -

The EPA recommends using insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. These are safe and effective when used properly.

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Safe use of insect repellents -

First, apply sunscreen, then the insect repellent. Avoid spraying into cuts or on irritated skin.

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Insect repellent precautions for children -

Children under three should not use oil of lemon eucalyptus or PMD. Apply repellent to your hands first before applying it to a child’s face.

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Additional preventative measures -

It can help to wear long-sleeve clothing, and if you're going to be outdoors for a long time or hiking, treat gear with permethrin and try to stay in screened in areas.

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Who is at risk for severe Chikungunya virus? -

Newborns, older adults, and people with diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease are at greater risk of severe illness.

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How to ease symptoms at home -

Getting enough rest, drinking fluids, and taking acetaminophen (Tylenol) can help ease discomfort during recovery.

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Medications to avoid -

NSAIDs such as ibuprofen and aspirin should be avoided until dengue fever is ruled out to prevent bleeding complications.

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The FDA-approved Chikungunya vaccine -

In November 2023, the FDA approved a vaccine for adults aged 18 and older. Recommendations on who should receive it are still being evaluated. In February 2025, the CDC began an investigation after five adults who had recently received the vaccine were hospitalized. There is yet to be a confirmed link between their illnesses and the vaccine. 

Sources: (VeryWell Health) (Cleveland Clinic)

See also: How climate change is causing a rise in mosquito-borne illnesses

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