What is chikungunya?
Chikungunya is a virus spread among people by mosquitoes. People infected with the virus often complain of fever and joint pain. In December, 2013, a large outbreak of chikungunya began in the Caribbean. Prior to this outbreak, the disease was only found in parts of Africa, Asia, Europe and the Indian and Pacific Oceans.
The Asian tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus) is a type of mosquito found in NYC. Currently, Asian tiger mosquitoes in NYC are not spreading this virus, but many New Yorkers have become infected after traveling to other parts of the world, especially the Caribbean.
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How would New York City respond if chikungunya were found locally?
While the risk seems low, it is possible for an Asian tiger mosquito to spread the chikungunya virus that is in the Caribbean. If a mosquito bites a person who is infected with chikungunya, that mosquito could go on to spread the virus to another person. The Health Department is conducting human and mosquito surveillance. If local mosquitoes start to spread the virus, there will be a rapid response to eliminate infected mosquitoes.
What are the symptoms of chikungunya?
Most people infected with the virus develop some symptoms, typically fever and joint pain. Other symptoms may include headache, muscle pain, joint swelling or rash. Symptoms usually begin three to seven days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. Chikungunya does not often result in death, but the symptoms can be severe and disabling. Most people feel better within a week, but joint pain may persist for months in some.
Who is most at risk for the virus?
People at risk for more severe symptoms include babies infected around the time of birth, adults who are 65 and older and people with medical conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes or heart disease. Once a person gets the virus, he or she is likely to be protected from future infections.
How is chikungunya fever diagnosed?
The virus is diagnosed by a blood test.
How is chikungunya treated?
No specific treatment is available. People infected with the virus may receive medications to help relieve their symptoms. People who have the virus should stay indoors or wear protective clothing and mosquito repellent for eight days after they start to feel sick. This will help prevent mosquitoes from spreading the virus to other New Yorkers.
How can chikungunya be prevented?
- If you are traveling, decrease exposure to mosquitoes when going to areas where the virus is found.
- Use protective clothing, mosquito netting and repellents to help prevent mosquito bites.
- If you become infected with chikungunya, stay indoors or wear protective clothing and mosquito repellent for eight days after you start to feel sick. This will help prevent mosquitoes from transmitting the virus to other New Yorkers.
Please visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for current information on chikungunya virus. CDC Fact Sheets and Posters
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