Chikungunya is a mosquito-borne viral infection characterised by sudden high fever and intense joint pain, often appearing 3 – 7 days after an infected Aedes mosquito bite. It also triggers symptoms like headache, muscle soreness, rash, and fatigue. While the acute phase usually lasts about a week, joint pain may persist for months or even years in some cases. According to the WHO, with outbreaks spreading across Africa, Asia, the Americas, and parts of Europe, understanding the early warning signs and accurately differentiating chikungunya from similar illnesses like dengue or Zika is vital. Chikungunya can affect people of all ages and, although rarely fatal, often causes significant discomfort and can greatly impact daily life. Prompt recognition and supportive care are essential to managing symptoms and reducing the risk of long-term complications.
Symptoms of chikungunya
Chikungunya symptoms usually start suddenly, 3 to 7 days after being bitten by an infected Aedes mosquito. Understanding these symptoms can help you seek timely treatment and avoid complications.High fever: One of the first signs of chikungunya is a sudden high fever, often above 102°F (39°C). This fever usually lasts for 2 to 3 days and can be accompanied by chills and sweating.Severe joint pain: Intense joint pain is the hallmark of chikungunya. It commonly affects the hands, wrists, knees, ankles, and feet. This pain can be severe enough to limit movement and may persist for weeks or even months after the fever subsides.
Muscle pain: Many people with chikungunya experience muscle aches and soreness throughout the body. This pain typically occurs alongside joint pain and contributes to overall discomfort.Skin rash: A maculopapular rash, flat or slightly raised red spots develops in about 40 to 50% of chikungunya cases. The rash generally appears 2 to 5 days after the fever begins and can spread across the body.Headache: A persistent and sometimes severe headache is another common symptom. The pain often localizes behind the eyes, causing additional discomfort.
Fatigue and weakness: Chikungunya can cause prolonged tiredness and weakness that may last beyond the initial illness. This fatigue can affect daily activities and reduce overall energy levels.Swollen joints: Inflammation from the infection may cause joint swelling, resembling symptoms of arthritis. The swelling adds to the pain and stiffness experienced in affected joints.Nausea and vomiting: Some individuals may experience mild gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea or vomiting, usually in conjunction with fever and body aches.Conjunctivitis (Eye Redness): Though less common, some patients develop redness or irritation in the eyes, known as conjunctivitisAlso read | What causes bloating: Discover the foods and tips that help reduce bloating