All you need to know about Chikungunya?

KARACHI: Chikungunya has been a new fever alert in the city with scores of patients being admitted to different local hospitals almost every day.

The viral disease is not deadly but as per the Aga Khan University Hospital Pakistan (AKUH), its symptoms can be severe and disabling.

Here is a brief detail of the disease and its symptoms, if found in a patient, he or she must immediately consult a physician.

 

What is Chikungunya?

It is a viral disease transmitted to humans by infected mosquitoes that bit aggressively during the day. It does not cause death, but the symptoms can be severe and disabling.

 

Who can be infected?

• Adults (>65 years)
• Newborns infected around the time of birth
• People with chronic medical conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, blood pressure etc.

 

Signs and symptoms

• Fever and joint pain
• A headache, muscle pain, joint swelling or rash