What’s behind the unique identify?Chikungunya is a virus that may be discovered in lots of areas of the world, together with Asia, Africa, and the Americas. Whereas we’re fairly protected from this virus in Canada, people who find themselves travelling to different international locations ought to concentrate on this illness. Like Malaria and West Nile virus, it’s often unfold to people by means of mosquito bites. The identify “Chikungunya” means “to change into contorted” in a Tanzanian language, the place it was first recognized in 1952.Chikungunya usually happens in heat and wet areas, as these present good circumstances for the kind of mosquitoes that unfold the illness. These mosquitoes sometimes chunk in the course of the day and close to water sources. Chikungunya first appeared within the Caribbean in late 2013. By the top of 2017, there had been greater than 2.9 million circumstances. Throughout outbreaks, the virus can unfold in a short time, affecting as much as 75% of the native inhabitants. Many international locations have additionally skilled outbreaks previously 5 years, together with widespread locations equivalent to Mexico, Thailand, The Maldives, and Nigeria.People who find themselves sick from the Chikungunya virus don’t often die from the illness, however it might usually go away some long-term points. As much as 30% of contaminated individuals present no signs, however those that do usually expertise excessive fever and extreme joint ache within the arms and toes. Rash and eye issues also can happen. Infants, older adults, and folks with sure medical circumstances could also be at larger threat for creating extreme illness. Though most individuals get better in seven to 10 days, joint ache and tiredness can final for years. Individuals affected by long-term results of Chikungunya infections are sometimes unable to face upright with out issue and ache, regularly adopting a “contorted” posture that offers rise to the illness’s identify.There isn’t a remedy for the Chikungunya virus other than relaxation, fluids, and ache relievers; due to this fact, prevention is the very best strategy. Correct use of mosquito safety measures—equivalent to mosquito repellant sprays, long-sleeved clothes, and mosquito nets—is essential to supply safety in opposition to Chikungunya. These measures also can forestall different mosquito-borne ailments equivalent to Malaria, Dengue Fever, and Zika virus. Just lately, a brand new Chikungunya vaccine that gives wonderful safety in opposition to the virus has been authorized in Canada for people who find themselves prone to publicity to the illness. It is going to be accessible in late 2024.For those who’re planning a visit, discuss to a doctor or schedule an appointment with a healthcare supplier who focuses on journey drugs. It’s best to schedule an appointment no less than 4 to 6 weeks earlier than your journey, as a result of some vaccines require a number of doses for full safety. Travellers with shorter timelines must also search recommendation. All of our Journey Clinic pharmacists are licensed by the Worldwide Society of Journey Medication (ISTM). They’ll offer you complete journey recommendation, plus vaccines and medicines to assist preserve you protected in your journey. Go to ldtravelclinics.ca for extra details about our London Medication Journey Clinics and for an inventory of places.Associated
