Epidemiology of chikungunya
Epidemiology of Chikungunya
Chikungunya (pronunciation: /ˌtʃɪkənˈɡʊnjə/) is a viral disease transmitted to humans by infected mosquitoes. It is caused by the Chikungunya virus, a member of the Alphavirus genus in the family Togaviridae. The term "chikungunya" derives from the Kimakonde language, meaning "to become contorted", referring to the stooped appearance of sufferers due to joint pain.
Transmission
Chikungunya is primarily transmitted through the bite of an infected female Aedes aegypti or Aedes albopictus mosquito. These mosquitoes are most active during the day, particularly in the early morning and late afternoon.
Distribution
Chikungunya has been identified in over 60 countries in Asia, Africa, Europe and the Americas. The disease was first identified during an outbreak in southern Tanzania in 1952.
Symptoms
The most common symptoms of chikungunya are fever and severe joint pain. Other symptoms may include headache, muscle pain, joint swelling, or rash.
Prevention and Control
Prevention and control relies heavily on reducing the number of natural and artificial water-filled container habitats that support breeding of the mosquitoes. This requires mobilization of affected communities. During outbreaks, insecticides may be sprayed to kill flying mosquitoes, applied to surfaces in and around containers where the mosquitoes land, and used to treat water in containers to kill the immature larvae.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Epidemiology of chikungunya
- Wikipedia's article - Epidemiology of chikungunya
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