Causes and risk factors
The chikungunya virus is transmitted through the agent Aedes aegypti mosquito. It is a RNA virus which belongs to genus alphavirus, family togavirideae. Transmission occurs when a mosquito bites an infected person and then bites a non-infected person. These mosquitoes breed in stagnant waters and bite during the day time. The proximity of mosquito breeding sites to human habitation is a significant risk factor for chikungunya.
Clinical presentation
In chikungunya there is an abrupt onset of fever, frequently accompanied by joint pain. The incubation period of the chikungunya virus is 2 to 5 days. The common symptoms are high fever with chills, swelling of joints and pain, muscle pain with fatigue. There is nausea and vomiting. Skin rashes are seen. Rarely mouth ulcers, loss of taste, conjunctivitis are seen. Fever subsides in a few days, however, the joint pain persists from months to years. The joint pains are so severe that it compels the patient to stoop, hence the name ‘chikungunya,’ i.e., to bend.
Investigation
Medical history by the patient and clinical examination by the doctor helps in diagnosis. Tests like RT-PCR, serological tests like ELISA, virus isolation are done. Routine hemogram is recommended.
Treatment
The treatment is focused on relieving the symptoms like fever and joint pain. Recovery depends on the age and immunity of the patients. There is no specific medication for chikungunya; symptomatic treatment is given like analgesics, NSAIDs, antipyretic. Rest is advised in case of high fever and joint pain. Mild exercises like stretching exercise will improve stiffness and joint pain. Prevention is the best thing to avoid chikungunya. Prevention by avoiding exposure to stagnant waters, using mosquito repellents or mosquito nets, and regular spraying of DDT will contribute further to its prevention.
Other Modes of treatment
The other modes of treatment can also be effective in treating chikungunya. Homoeopathy is a science which deals with individualization and considers a person in a holistic way. This science can be helpful in combating the symptoms. Similarly, the Ayurvedic system of medicine which uses herbal medicines and synthetic derivates is also found to be effective in treating chikungunya.
Facts and figures
The disease outbreak was first seen in Southern Tanzania in 1952. The disease occurs in Africa, Asia, and Indian subcontinent. The word chikungunya means ‘bent’ which is derived from Kimakonde language.