Chikungunya is a mosquito-borne viral disease caused by the Chikungunya Virus. The virus is typically spread by two types of mosquitoes namely Aedes albopictus and Aedes aegypti and bite normally in the day time, but you can’t be very sure. Keeping in view the increasing terror of Chikungunya in Delhi, Bansal Global Hospital brings to you all that you need to know about Chikungunya:
Some important points you should know:
The disease has some common symptoms with dengue and Zika virus which can lead to misdiagnosis and therefore the wrong line of treatment. Make sure you are considering the advice of speciality doctors to avoid such incidences which can be life-threatening.
- As a matter of fact, there is no recognized cure for diseases. The treatment is meant to relieve the patients from the symptoms.
- The disease is widespread in Africa, Asia, and the Indian Subcontinent.
- It can reoccur, unlike other viral diseases which provide immunity against itself.
- Symptoms:
The symptoms of Chikungunya usually show within 2-12 days after the exposure to the virus, which can be from various mediums. The general symptoms include:
- Sudden onset of fever.
- Joint pain, which usually lasts even after the disease is cured. It can even stay on till years.
- Headache and Nausea.
- Small red spots/rashes all over the body.
Diagnosis:
- Visit your nearest speciality health care centre if you see any of the symptoms.
- Tell your doctor about your recent travels, which might include an affected place.
- The doctor after studying the symptoms will recommend a few blood tests to check if it is normal flu, dengue, or Chikungunya.
- You will then be advised rest and medication accordingly.
Treatment:
There is no vaccine yet discovered to provide immunity against the disease. Though few points help in reducing the symptoms:
- Be at complete rest.
- Drink lots of water and other fluids to keep yourself hydrated.
- If you are no alternated medication for any other ailment, inform your doctor about it before taking additional drugs.
- Take medicines prescribed by the doctor to get rid of fever and pain.
Prevention:
As the disease is mosquito-borne and is spread by mosquitoes only, the only way to protect yourself is to stay away from mosquitoes. You should keep in mind the following points:
- Close windows in the evening.
- Use mosquito repellents or mosquito nets while sleeping.
- Avoid going to crowded places during the outbreak