Chikungunya virus alert: How a mosquito bite this monsoon can trigger severe arthritis-like pain that can last up to 5 years |

A critical well being warning is now being issued worldwide. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has sounded an early alarm concerning the rising danger of a international chikungunya epidemic, a viral illness many have barely heard of, but one that has already contaminated thousands and thousands prior to now and is now gaining tempo as soon as once more.According to WHO’s Diana Rojas Alvarez, the early warning indicators in the present day are comparable to these that preceded the explosive 2004-2005 chikungunya outbreak, which unfold quickly from small island nations to giant populations throughout the globe. This time, the virus is making a sturdy comeback in Indian Ocean islands, components of Africa, South Asia, and even components of Europe.Here’s all we’d like to find out about what this warning really means, what occurs throughout chikungunya an infection, who wants to be extra cautious, and what steps can really assist cut back the chance.

Understanding Chikungunya: Not simply one other fever

Chikungunya is mostly mistaken for dengue or Zika due to its overlapping signs, however it comes with its personal set of severe challenges. Caused by the chikungunya virus, this illness spreads by way of the bite of contaminated Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes, the identical mosquitoes recognized to transmit dengue and Zika.What units chikungunya aside is the depth of joint pain it causes. The phrase itself comes from a Makonde language and means “to become contorted,” referring to the stooped posture of sufferers due to insufferable joint stiffness. In most circumstances, the sickness lasts 7–10 days, however in some, joint pain can linger for months and even years, mimicking arthritis.

Symptoms: What actually occurs when contaminated?

WHO confirms that chikungunya signs usually seem 4 to 8 days after being bitten. These embody:

In uncommon circumstances, eye, coronary heart, or neurological problemsWhat stays hidden is the long-term burden this illness can place on people, particularly older adults and people with underlying well being circumstances. Joint pain that persists for months isn’t simply uncomfortable, it’s disabling.

Who is most in danger, and why it issues now greater than ever

As per WHO’s newest evaluation, 5.6 billion folks throughout 119 nations at the moment are in danger. This contains not solely tropical areas but in addition components of Europe and Asia, the place the so-called tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus) is increasing due to local weather change.The danger is very excessive amongst:

Recent knowledge from La Réunion suggests practically one-third of its inhabitants has already been contaminated in 2025 alone. With native transmission now occurring in France and Italy, the virus is not a distant tropical concern.

How the virus spreads: Not by way of contact, however mosquitoes

There are a few myths floating round, so let’s clear the air.Chikungunya will not be unfold from particular person to particular person just like the frequent chilly. It spreads completely by way of the bite of an contaminated mosquito. These mosquitoes bite in the course of the day, particularly throughout early morning and late afternoon.Once contaminated, a particular person can act as a supply of the virus for mosquitoes for about a week, and if bitten throughout this time, the mosquito can then move the virus to others. That’s how outbreaks spiral so shortly.

Prevention: What really works (and what doesn’t)

In the absence of a vaccine or particular antiviral therapy, prevention is the one highly effective defend. WHO urges sturdy particular person and community-level efforts.Here are key protecting methods:

However, mere fogging isn’t sufficient if water containers proceed to lie round unnoticed. Community consciousness and cleanliness are the actual sport changers.

Chikungunya in the present day: A local weather disaster in disguise?

There’s rising proof linking the resurgence of mosquito-borne ailments to local weather change. Warmer temperatures and elevated rainfall are increasing the breeding grounds and survival time for Aedes mosquitoes.A 2024 report warns that rising international temperatures have pushed the tiger mosquito additional north, reaching areas in southern Europe beforehand untouched.This is not only a public well being difficulty anymore, it’s a climate-linked disaster. Public well being specialists are urging nations to strengthen illness surveillance, spend money on early detection programs, and put together healthcare infrastructure for large-scale outbreaks.(Inputs from businesses)(This article is meant for informational functions solely and doesn’t substitute skilled medical recommendation. For private well being issues, seek the advice of a certified healthcare supplier.)