If you have watched the news recently you have most likely heard some talk about the Chikungunya virus buzzing around. We know and understand that the thought of it could make you really anxious. Do not worry! In this blog we are going to tell you all about it and make sure you have a piece of mind that you are okay.
How do you say it?
Saying this word is actually more difficult that understanding the facts about it. Let us make it simple… repeat after me.
“Chik-en-gun-ye”
How is it spread?
Chikungunya is a new virus that is spread by, your favorite, the mosquito. Until late 2013 that virus was only found in Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Indian and Pacific Oceans. Then it made its way to the Caribbean, where travelers began bringing it back to the home of the brave, the United States.
Confirmed cases had been reported in 30 states as of July 8, which is why it has been hitting headlines over the past several weeks. Currently the virus is not actually being transmitted in the United States but the experts warn that these imported cases could result in local spread of the virus in the future.
Symptoms
The Centers for Disease Control Prevention assures us that Chikungunya is not lethal like West Nile, but it is something we would of course like to avoid.
The most common symptoms of the virus are…
- Fever
- Joint Pain
- Headache
- Muscle Pain
- Joint Swelling
- Rash
Traveling Precautions
If you are traveling to a country where Chikungunya is transmitted by mosquitoes, take precautions to avoid mosquito bites. Wear long sleeves and avoid being outdoors when mosquitoes are most active (dusk and dawn).
Superior Mosquito Defense
Hopefully this blog was about to inform you, and make you more comfortable about the virus. It is always good to look into what you can do to prevent these things before going into another country. At Superior Mosquito Defense, we want you to have the best defense possible towards these tiny but intimidating insects. Call us today for any questions you might have for us.