What is Chikungunya Fever?

Most people will have a blank stare upon their faces when asked this question, "What is Chikungunya Fever?" Well, international travelers have no doubt heard of this disease. It plagues both Africa and Asia. So, what is it exactly and how is it transmitted?

Chikungunya Fever: The Carriers

If you've guessed that those pesky little mosquitoes are to blame for this one then you are absolutely right. We all know that these particular blood suckers carry all sorts of nasty diseases and this is yet another one. Chikungunya Fever is a part of the genus Alphavirus.

The Chikungunya Fever has been to blames for countless human epidemics since 1953. According to the CDC; "chikungunya" is thought to be derived from the word "kungunyala" in the Makonde language of southeastern Tanzania and northern Mozambique, which means "to dry up or become contorted".

Chikungunya Fever and the Pain That is Caused

Chikungunya Fever can be absolutely devastating and unbearable with regard to the severe symptoms. Fever, headache nausea and vomiting are bad enough but when you add the debilitating pain from joints and muscles into the mix it becomes even worse.

This horrible feeling can last as little as a few days or as long as several weeks. Unfortunately there is no known vaccine or antiviral treatments are available. In these cases waiting it out and keeping the victim consuming ibuprofen and acetaminophen for the pain is pretty much the only thing that can be done. Aspirin should be avoided at all costs with Chikungunya Fever.

Chikungunya Fever and Prevention

As I have said numerous times before, prevention and awareness are so important when dealing with any sickness and disease. The more people know about the area in which they are visiting the better off they will be. Learning not only about the land and all the dangers it contains is only a small part of the education process a traveler needs to be diligent in. A person needs to find out all they can about health risks and outbreaks for that region which can be done online or by calling the Center for Disease Control.

For Chikungunya Fever, you can apply a generous amount of repellents containing DEET. Wearing long sleeves and protective clothing is another excellent preventative measure. As long as you can stop the mosquitoes from biting you then you are well on your way to staying Chikungunya Fever free.