What is Chikungunya?
The name refers to a disease caused by the Chikungunya virus. This virus is spread by two particular types of mosquitoes, the Aedes albopictus and Aedes aegypti. The first recorded instance of a Chikungunya outbreak occurred in Tanzania in 1952. The word ‘Chikungunya’ comes from the Kimakonde language and means ‘to become contorted’, a reference to the stooped condition of sufferers due to joint pain.
Identifying Chikungunya
1. Sudden high fever, with body temperature reaching 104 degrees Fahrenheit (or 40 degrees Celsius).
2. Severe joint pain, especially in the hands, wrists and ankles. The pain can be strong enough to restrict movement. Some people experience pain along with swelling.
3. Rashes on the face, arms, legs and back.
4. Headache along with pain in large muscle groups.
5. Constant feeling of tiredness and lack of energy.
How does it spread?
The Chikungunya virus spreads among humans through the bite of infected female mosquitoes. Mosquitoes carrying this virus are usually active during the day, especially in the morning and late afternoon. The first symptoms of the disease usually appear within 4 days of being bitten by an infected mosquito.
Is Chikungunya different from Dengue?
Since both the diseases share symptoms like fever and joint pain, it may be difficult to distinguish them at first. The primary difference is that while Dengue causes life-threatening complications like shock and heavy bleeding, Chikungunya is relatively milder.
How to detect Chikungunya?
In the initial stages, even blood tests have difficulty in detecting the disease. Serological tests, such as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA), may help confirm the presence of anti-chikungunya antibodies which are produced by the body.
Is there a cure?
Unfortunately, there is no cure or vaccine for this disease at present. Most treatments focus on addressing the individual symptoms. Along with complete rest and regular intake of water, doctors usually prescribe medicines to control the fever and pain sensation.
How to prevent Chikungunya
The simplest way to avoid Chikungunya is also the hardest: make sure you don’t get bitten by a virus-carrying mosquito.
1. Scan the immediate area around your house for puddles of standing water. Water can gather in discarded objects like an old mug, flowerpot or a worn-out tire. These become breeding ground of mosquitoes.
2. Wear protective clothing at all times, especially during the day. Make sure your clothing covers as much of the skin as possible.
3. Apply mosquito-repellent cream on exposed body parts like the face, neck and feet.
4. Sleep inside a mosquito net. Keep an anti-mosquito coil or vaporizer in the room.
5. Avoid wearing dark-coloured clothes as it attracts mosquitoes.
What to do if you are infected
If you think that you or someone you know is showing signs of Chikungunya, then don’t panic. Visit the local general physician or the hospital immediately. Usually, you will be asked to undergo blood tests. In the mean time, get plenty of rest and drink lots of water to avoid fatigue and dehydration.
By Khalid Md. Saifullah
Naturoveda Health World
Note: Being at the forefront of treating chronic diseases, Naturoveda Health World utilises the unique combination of Fundamentals of Ayurveda, Unani and Therapeutic Yoga. These time-tested procedures not just tackle the symptoms, but also eradicate the root cause of the disease. The Naturovedic treatment is completely safe, highly effective and pocket-friendly as well. To contact Naturoveda, call on 1800 258 6666 (Toll free) or WhatsApp at +91 96744 26666.
www.naturoveda.com
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