Chikungunya: bending over the Americas and the rest of the world

Braz J Infect Dis. 2016 Jan-Feb;20(1):91-8. doi: 10.1016/j.bjid.2015.10.004. Epub 2015 Dec 17.

Abstract

Chikungunya is an arthropod-borne virus transmitted by Aedes mosquito bites. A viral mutation has allowed Aedes albopictus to become the preferred vector extending the geographic spread of the condition. The virus causes an acute febrile illness occasionally followed by a chronic rheumatic condition causing severe impairment. The diagnosis is usually confirmed with serology. No specific treatment is currently available. This article reviews the condition with emphasis on his dissemination in the Americas.

Keywords: Alphavirus; Chikungunya; Epidemics.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Aedes / virology*
  • Animals
  • Chikungunya Fever* / diagnosis
  • Chikungunya Fever* / epidemiology
  • Chikungunya Fever* / prevention & control
  • Chikungunya Fever* / transmission
  • Chikungunya virus*
  • Global Health / statistics & numerical data
  • Humans
  • Insect Vectors / virology*