Chikungunya is a viral infection transmitted by mosquitoes of the genus Aedes. This condition is usually short – lived but symptoms can be severe. Chikungunya is one of the few mosquito borne illnesses , along with zika and dengue that can be fatal for both pregnant women and their unborn children . However this condition is  rare in the United States.

This infection is of concern in pregnant women. This is because they can transmit the virus to their baby around the time of birth. Newborns affected with this infection face the risk of getting the more severe form.

What are the symptoms of Chikungunya ?

The most common symptoms are fever and joint pain. You may also experience the following :

• headache
• muscle pain
• swollen joints
• rash

Most people feel better in a week. Others have joint pain that lasts for months.

If you experience any of these symptoms , contact your doctor right away.

What is the treatment for Chikungunya ?

There is no medicine for this condition. However your doctor will suggest simple ways treating it.

• get enough rest
• stay hydrated by drinking lots of water
• take acetaminophen to relieve fever and pain. (Don’t take NSAIDS like ibuprofen or aspirin.)

How do you protect yourself from  Chikungunya ?

There is no vaccine for this infection. Take steps to avoid getting bitten by mosquito in places where incidence of  Chikungunya is high.

• use insect repellent  with up to 50% DEET, picaridin, IR3535 or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus during pregnancy.
• wear loose cotton clothes that cover the arms and legs
• stay in cool places with airconditioning  or have screen on windows and doors