Chikungunya virus

Chikungunya virus

Biology and pathogenesis of chikungunya virus

Key points

• Chikungunya virus disease (chikungunya) is a nationally notifiable condition.

• Locally acquired chikungunya cases have not been reported from U.S. states or territories since 2019.

Reference:

https://www.cdc.gov/chikungunya/data-maps/chikungunya-us.html#:~:text=Key%20points,states%20or%20territories%20since%202019.

Chikungunya virus is a mosquito-borne illness causing sudden fever, severe joint pain (arthralgia), and rash, which can persist for months or even years. Transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, the virus spread to the Americas in 2013 and has since been reported in Florida, with cases originating from travelers to affected countries. While generally not fatal, risk factors for severe disease include old age, infancy, and pre-existing conditions. Prevention focuses on avoiding mosquito bites through repellents, protective clothing, and eliminating standing water.

The chances of getting chikungunya in Florida are low for residents as there are no current areas of active local transmission in the state. The risk comes from infected visitors introducing the virus, which mosquitoes can then spread to others. 

Reference:

https://www.floridahealth.gov/diseases-and-conditions/chikungunya/index.html#:~:text=weeks%20to%20years.-,Transmission,to%20other%20people%20they%20bite.