First things first. You pronounce
this virus Chi-kung-un-ya. Go ahead and practice that tongue twister a few times so
you can impress your friends later on!
The chikungunya virus, a mosquito-borne
illness that causes high fevers and sometimes intense pain, is
spreading rapidly throughout the Caribbean. In some ways it's similar
to dengue fever which is also known as break bone fever!
In 2013, the CDC reported that the
disease is now endemic in the Caribbean, with up to 17 different
countries reporting outbreaks. Now experts concede that it's only a
matter of time before it makes its way onto US shores.
Once a person becomes infected, there’s
an incubation period of three to seven days before symptoms present.
The most common signs of the virus are fever and joint pain,
typically in multiple different joints. Like any viral syndrome,
chikungunya can also cause muscle aches, headaches, rash and joint
swelling. As one health care worker put it, 'while it won't kill you,
you just may wish you were dead!'
Citizens can reduce their exposure to
mosquitoes by wearing protective clothing, utilizing insect
repellents and staying indoors on hot days. Additionally, people
should avoid or eliminate any standing water near their home, as it
can serve as a mosquito breeding site.
Now, get out there and enjoy your
summer!
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