Chikungunya

GENERAL PRINCIPLES

Chikungunya virus is transmitted to humans by the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito. It is endemic to

Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Caribbean.

DIAGNOSIS

Infection should be considered in travelers from endemic areas who present with fever and polyarthralgia.

Clinical Presentation

Fever and malaise are the earliest symptoms progressing to polyarthralgia 2-5 days after onset of fever. Multiple distal joints are involved, with pain that can be disabling. Maculopapular rash may appear. Relapsing joint pain for several months can occur in some patients.

Diagnostic Testing

PCR in the first week of disease can confirm acute infection. Acute and convalescent serology can also be helpful for diagnosis.

TREATMENT

Supportive care with rest and anti-inflammatory agents.⁴⁹