Chikungunya Virus –What is it, and how can we avoid it?

Many people enjoy the outdoors, families go camping, hiking, swimming, have cookouts, and even travel to other countries for vacation while avoiding pests and the illnesses that come with them; like the Chikungunya Virus. Even though we all agree that these are fun activities, sometimes these activities come with a price, dealing with annoying bugs! Mosquitoes are one of those annoying bugs. Like the West Nile virus, the chikungunya virus is transmitted to people by mosquitoes. Wherever there is standing water, large or small, mosquitoes will breed, and when these bugs bite, we are left with itchy bumps. For the most part, we can all agree these bugs are just more annoying than dangerous. But some mosquitoes can carry deadly viruses. The chikungunya virus has primarily been seen in other countries like Africa and Asia. However, it has recently spread to the Caribbean and Central America, infecting an estimated 260,000 people and killing 21.

Image Coutesy of Carpha.org

Now even though the United States has not seen an outbreak of this virus, we are likely to see one in the near future. Recently it was reported that the first Nashville area case was confirmed.  People who travel or have traveled to any of the infected countries could become infected themselves, and in turn, bring the virus home. Because symptoms are so mild in the beginning, most travelers do not know they have been infected until several days later. According to an article on NBC News website, there have been 129 cases of chikungunya virus reported in the U.S, in which all of the cases have been carried by recent travelers. So everyone’s question is, what are the symptoms, and how can we avoid it?

The chikungunya virus causes symptoms that usually appear anywhere between 3-7 days after being bitten. The most common symptoms are fever and severe joint pain. Other symptoms may include headache, muscle pain, joint swelling, or rash. It is said that most people feel better within a week, but the joint pain has been known to continue for months. Scientists are currently working on developing a vaccine for this virus. The good news is, once a person has been infected, they are likely to be protected from future infections. The standard treatment for the chikungunya virus is drinking plenty of fluids, get plenty of rest, and take medication, such as ibuprofen to help relieve fever and pain.

Prevention is very important, prevention is simple; most of us already take precautions to avoid mosquito bites while outdoors. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that we can simply wear long sleeves, long pants, and/or use insect repellent. There are several bugs in the world that can cause serious illnesses. The best way we can avoid this is to take precaution. So, if you are one that loves outdoor adventures, or one who enjoys traveling the world, remember to take the same precautions there as you do at home. Do a little research on the areas you will be going, know what to expect, and be prepared. Taking the extra time to prepare can save your life and others.

At Absolute Pest Control we will help your family stay safe!

If you are concerned that you have any type of pest, call us for a FREE Estimate. No pressure. 615-220-1933 or 615-650-0070.