The monsoon season brings much-needed relief from the heat, but it also creates ideal breeding conditions for mosquitoes, especially the ones responsible for spreading the chikungunya virus. With stagnant water and increased humidity, chikungunya fever cases have typically seen a sharp rise during this time.
This blog contains information about the chikungunya fever, what causes it, and different ways to tackle it. Please note that this blog is for informational purposes only, and it is always advised to consult a doctor for a comprehensive medical evaluation and timely treatment.
What is Chikungunya?
Chikungunya is a mosquito-borne viral disease caused by the chikungunya virus (CHIKV). It is primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of infected Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes, which are active during the daytime. The infection is not usually fatal, but it can lead to severe joint pain and discomfort, affecting daily activities and overall well-being.
People of all age groups can get chikungunya, but older adults (50+ years), infants, and individuals with underlying health conditions are more likely to experience severe symptoms or complications. In general, the disease does not discriminate by age, but recovery can be slower and more painful in the elderly due to pre-existing joint issues or a weaker immune system.
What are the Symptoms of Chikungunya?
Chikungunya symptoms typically appear 4 to 7 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. While the disease is rarely fatal, it can cause intense discomfort and significantly disrupt daily life. Chikungunya fever symptoms may overlap with those of other mosquito-borne diseases like dengue, which is why proper chikungunya virus diagnosis is essential. Here are some common symptoms of chikungunya:
Chikungunya often begins with a sudden, high-grade fever that can reach up to 104°F (40°C), usually lasting for 2–3 days.
One of the hallmark symptoms, joint pain, can be intense and persistent, affecting areas like wrists, ankles, knees, and fingers, often lasting for weeks.
Generalised body aches or muscle stiffness can occur, contributing to a feeling of extreme discomfort and reduced mobility.
Headaches are common during the early phase of infection and often accompany fever and fatigue.
A red, blotchy rash may appear on the face, trunk, or limbs a few days after the fever starts, often itchy and lasting several days.
Some individuals experience gastrointestinal upset, such as nausea or vomiting, usually during the early stages of infection.
Inflamed and visibly swollen joints are a frequent complaint and may linger even after the fever subsides.
Conjunctivitis (Red Eyes)
Mild eye redness or irritation resembling conjunctivitis may occur in some patients, usually without discharge.
Tiredness and weakness are common and can persist for days or even weeks after other symptoms have resolved.
Chikungunya Symptoms in Children
Children infected with chikungunya often show a persistent fever that may last longer compared to adults. They can become unusually irritable or cry excessively, usually due to joint pain or discomfort from the fever. Gastrointestinal symptoms like vomiting and diarrhoea are more common in infants and toddlers. The skin rash tends to be more widespread in children than in adults. Although rare, some severe cases can lead to seizures or other neurological symptoms. Additionally, swelling of the hands and feet is often more noticeable in younger children.
What Causes Chikungunya?
Chikungunya is caused by the chikungunya virus (CHIKV), which is primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes, mainly Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus. These mosquitoes become carriers of the virus after feeding on an infected person and can then spread the virus to others through subsequent bites.
The virus thrives in tropical and subtropical climates, where warm temperatures and stagnant water provide ideal breeding grounds for these mosquitoes. Because of this, chikungunya outbreaks often coincide with the monsoon season, when mosquito populations surge. In rare cases, the virus can also be transmitted from mother to child during childbirth, but human-to-human transmission without mosquitoes does not occur.
Transmission Cycles of CHIKV
This is the most common transmission pattern in densely populated areas. In this cycle, the virus spreads between infected humans and Aedes mosquitoes, primarily Aedes aegypti. When a mosquito bites an infected person, it becomes a carrier of the virus. The same mosquito can then bite and infect multiple people, leading to rapid outbreaks in cities and towns.
More commonly observed in Africa, this cycle involves non-human primates (like monkeys) and forest-dwelling mosquitoes. The virus circulates between wild animals and mosquitoes in forested or rural regions. Occasionally, the infection spills over to humans when they enter these areas, but it does not usually result in large-scale outbreaks like the urban cycle.
Risk Factors of Chikungunya
While chikungunya can affect anyone bitten by an infected mosquito, certain risk factors increase the chances of contracting the disease or developing more severe symptoms. Recognising these factors can help individuals take better preventive measures and reduce the risk of infection during outbreaks, especially in high-risk seasons like the monsoon. Key Risk Factors for Chikungunya are:
Exposure to Mosquito-Prone Environments
Staying in areas with standing water, poor sanitation, or inadequate mosquito control increases the likelihood of mosquito bites and infection.
Lack of Personal Protection
Not using mosquito repellents, sleeping without nets, or wearing short-sleeved clothing outdoors can heighten exposure to Aedes mosquitoes, the primary carriers of the chikungunya virus.
Age and Pre-Existing Health Conditions
Infants, older adults, and those with chronic illnesses like diabetes or heart disease are more likely to experience severe symptoms and prolonged chikungunya recovery time.
Individuals with compromised immunity are more vulnerable to infections and may face complications or slower recovery.
Chikungunya During Monsoon
Why does Chikungunya Spread More During Monsoon?
The monsoon season creates ideal conditions for the spread of chikungunya, primarily due to increased mosquito breeding. The Aedes mosquitoes, which transmit the chikungunya virus, lay their eggs in stagnant water, something that becomes more common during monsoon due to water accumulation in puddles, drains, flowerpots, and open containers.
Stagnant Water Breeding Grounds
Rainwater collects in small containers, potholes, and blocked drains, offering perfect breeding spots for chikungunya mosquitoes.
High Humidity and Warm Temperatures
These weather conditions speed up the mosquito life cycle and enhance viral replication within the mosquito.
Increased Mosquito Activity
Mosquitoes are more active during the early morning and late afternoon, times when people are often outdoors during cooler monsoon hours.
During heavy rains, it becomes harder to maintain proper sanitation, leading to unchecked mosquito breeding and a higher chance of chikungunya spread.
Who is Most Likely to Get Chikungunya?
Chikungunya can affect people of all ages, but certain groups are more vulnerable to infection and its after-effects. The disease is spread through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes, so individuals living in or travelling to mosquito-prone areas are at higher risk. High-risk groups for chikungunya include:
Infants and Young Children
Their immune systems are still developing, making them more susceptible to severe symptoms such as persistent fever, rash, and irritability.
Elderly Individuals (Aged 60+)
Older adults often have weaker immune responses and pre-existing joint problems, which can worsen chikungunya and joint pain, leading to prolonged recovery.
While transmission to the fetus is rare, infection during late pregnancy may pose risks, including chikungunya complications for the newborn.
People with Chronic Illnesses
Those with diabetes, heart disease, or weakened immunity may experience more severe symptoms or longer chikungunya recovery times.
Residents of or Travellers to Endemic Areas
People living in tropical or subtropical regions, especially during monsoon, are at increased risk due to high mosquito activity and poor sanitation.
How is Chikungunya Diagnosed?
Diagnosing chikungunya involves a combination of clinical evaluation and laboratory testing. Since its symptoms, such as fever, rash, and joint pain, can resemble other viral infections like dengue or Zika, accurate diagnosis is essential for appropriate chikungunya treatment and management. Chikungunya diagnosis may involve the following:
Clinical Evaluation
Clinical evaluation is usually the first step in diagnosing chikungunya. Doctors typically assess symptoms such as sudden high fever, severe joint pain (especially in the wrists, ankles, and knees), skin rash, headache, and fatigue.
Since these symptoms can overlap with other illnesses like dengue and Zika, doctors recommend lab tests along with clinical assessment for an accurate diagnosis. It helps guide the decision to conduct further laboratory tests to confirm chikungunya virus infection. However, because these signs can overlap with other diseases, a chikungunya test is usually required to confirm the diagnosis.
Laboratory Tests
RT-PCR (Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction)
Detects viral RNA in the early stages (within the first week of symptoms). It is highly accurate and confirms active infection.
Serological Tests (ELISA)
Detects IgM and IgG antibodies against the chikungunya virus. IgM antibodies typically appear 4–5 days after the onset of illness and remain in the blood for about 2–3 months.
Viral Culture (Rarely Used)
In specialised labs, the virus may be isolated from a blood sample, but this method is time-consuming and not commonly used for routine diagnosis.
Accurate diagnosis helps rule out similar diseases like dengue (chikungunya vs dengue) and ensures that patients receive the right supportive therapy while avoiding treatments that could worsen symptoms, such as certain anti-inflammatory drugs.
What are the Treatment Options For Chikungunya?
Currently, there is no specific antiviral treatment or cure for chikungunya. Management focuses on relieving symptoms through supportive therapy, rest, hydration, and nutritional care. The body typically fights off the chikungunya virus on its own, but medical support can significantly ease discomfort and reduce the risk of complications. Here are some options to manage chikungunya symptoms and prevent the condition from getting worse:
Managing the general symptoms of chikungunya, such as fever and body aches, focuses on keeping the body comfortable. Simple measures like staying cool, resting, and using natural cooling methods (like cold compresses) can help ease discomfort during the acute phase of the illness.
Joint pain is one of the most common and lingering symptoms of chikungunya. Gentle stretching, warm compresses, and light massage can help reduce stiffness and improve mobility. It's important to avoid overexertion and allow joints to heal gradually through rest and low-impact movement.
Staying well-hydrated is essential for recovery. Drinking plenty of water, clear fluids, and natural juices helps flush toxins and keeps the body strong. Combined with ample rest, this allows the immune system to fight off the virus more effectively.
Nutritional Support (Chikungunya Treatment Food)
Eating a balanced diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and easily digestible foods can support immune function and reduce inflammation. Light, home-cooked meals that are nutrient-dense provide energy and aid in faster recovery from fatigue and weakness.
Chikungunya Supportive Therapy
Supportive care may also include physical therapy or simple home exercises to improve joint flexibility and strength. In some prolonged cases, emotional and mental well-being support is beneficial, especially if the joint pain persists or affects daily life activities.
Are there any Complications Of Chikungunya?
Although chikungunya disease is rarely life-threatening, it can lead to several complications, especially in certain high-risk groups. Most patients recover fully, but some experience prolonged symptoms or serious health issues that require medical attention. Timely diagnosis and appropriate chikungunya supportive therapy are essential to minimise these complications and aid a smoother recovery. Common complications of Chikungunya include:
Chronic Joint Pain and Arthritis
One of the most persistent aftereffects of the chikungunya virus is long-lasting joint pain and inflammation, which can mimic rheumatoid arthritis and affect daily activities for months or even years.
Neurological Complications
In rare cases, the virus can affect the nervous system, causing problems such as meningitis, encephalitis, or neuropathy, which may lead to seizures, muscle weakness, or cognitive issues.
Some patients develop eye inflammation or conjunctivitis, which can cause discomfort and require treatment to prevent vision issues.
Severe Disease in Vulnerable Groups
Infants, elderly people, and those with weakened immune systems or chronic illnesses may experience more severe symptoms, longer recovery, or complications like dehydration and secondary infections.
Even after the acute phase, some individuals suffer from recurring joint pain, fatigue, or weakness, which can impact their quality of life.
Can Chikungunya Be Prevented?
Chikungunya prevention primarily revolves around reducing exposure to the Aedes mosquitoes that transmit the virus. Since there is currently no widely available chikungunya vaccine, protecting yourself and your community from mosquito bites is the most effective way to avoid infection. Key Prevention Measures Include:
Eliminating Mosquito Breeding Sites
Regularly empty, clean, or cover containers that collect water, such as flowerpots, buckets, tires, and drains, to stop mosquitoes from laying eggs.
Using Mosquito Protection
Wear long-sleeved clothing, use mosquito nets while sleeping, and apply insect repellents on exposed skin, especially during early morning and late afternoon when chikungunya mosquitoes are most active.
Improving Sanitation and Drainage
Proper waste disposal and drainage management help reduce standing water and decrease mosquito populations.
Community Awareness and Action
Educating people about the chikungunya spread and encouraging neighbourhood clean-up drives can significantly lower the risk of outbreaks.
Chikungunya Vs Dengue Vs Malaria
Chikungunya, dengue, and malaria are mosquito-borne diseases that often share overlapping symptoms, making diagnosis challenging without medical tests. Chikungunya typically presents with a sudden high fever accompanied by severe joint pain that can last for weeks or months, along with muscle pain, rash, and fatigue.
Dengue also causes a sudden high fever but is characterised by intense headaches, pain behind the eyes, muscle and bone pain often referred to as “breakbone fever,” and sometimes bleeding or rash.
Malaria, caused by parasites, leads to cyclical fever spikes with chills and sweating, along with fatigue and anaemia in severe cases. While fever is common to all three, the nature of joint pain, rash, bleeding tendencies, and fever patterns helps distinguish these illnesses.
Symptoms | Chikungunya | Dengue | Malaria |
Fever | Sudden high fever (may last 2–3 days) | Sudden high fever (can last up to a week) | Cyclical fever with chills and sweating |
Joint Pain | Severe, often long-lasting (weeks/months) | Mild to moderate, short-term | Rare |
Muscle Pain | Common | Intense and widespread ("breakbone fever") | Common |
Headache | Present, moderate | Severe, often behind the eyes | Common |
Skin Rash | Common (appears 2–5 days after fever) | Common (especially in children) | Rare |
Bleeding (internal or skin) | Rare | Common in severe cases (gums, nose, bruises) | Very rare |
Chills & Sweating | Rare | Occasionally present | Common, especially during fever cycles |
Fatigue | Common, may persist after recovery | Common during and after illness | Very common, often with weakness |
Nausea/Vomiting | Sometimes present | Frequently reported | Common |
Eye Pain/Conjunctivitis | Sometimes present | Pain behind the eyes is common | Uncommon |
Onset of Symptoms | 3–7 days after the mosquito bite | 4–10 days after the mosquito bite | 7–30 days after the mosquito bite |
Artemis Hospitals Offer Effective Chikungunya Treatment By Top Internal Medicine Specialists in Gurgaon
Artemis Hospitals are committed towards the diagnosis and medical treatment of adults. Our internal medicine specialists take the entire case of the patient rather than one particular organ system for a comprehensive and personalised treatment. Our experienced internal medicine specialists liaise between a super specialist and the patient. While on one hand, the super specialist depends upon the Internist for initial diagnosis & post-therapeutic day-to-day care of patients, the patients require an Internist for their continuous management.
At Artemis Hospital, our expert internal medicine team is committed to providing comprehensive care for Chikungunya using evidence-based protocols. With advanced diagnostic facilities, personalised treatment plans, and patient education on prevention, we offer holistic management to help you recover quickly and safely. Whether you need support with symptoms, monitoring, or preventive advice, our specialists ensure expert care at every step.
Book an appointment with our internal medicine specialists today. Call our customer care at +91-124-451-1111 or WhatsApp at +91 959-928-5476. You can also book online through the Artemis Health app (available on iOS & Android).
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days does chikungunya last?
Chikungunya fever usually lasts 3–7 days, but joint pain and fatigue may persist for weeks or even months in some individuals.
How is chikungunya spread?
Chikungunya is spread through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes, primarily Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus.
What is the incubation period of chikungunya?
The incubation period ranges from 2 to 7 days after a mosquito bite, with symptoms typically appearing within a week.
Is there any seasonal pattern for chikungunya fever?
Yes, chikungunya cases rise during the monsoon and post-monsoon seasons when mosquito breeding is most active due to stagnant water.
What is the difference between chikungunya and dengue?
Both are mosquito-borne, but chikungunya mainly causes intense joint pain, while dengue is known for low platelet count and potential bleeding.
How common is chikungunya?
Chikungunya is common in tropical and subtropical regions, with outbreaks frequently reported in parts of Asia, Africa, and South America.
Are chikungunya and dengue the same thing?
No, chikungunya and dengue are caused by different viruses, but they share similar symptoms and are both spread by Aedes mosquitoes.
Is there a cure for chikungunya?
There is no specific cure for chikungunya. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms through rest, hydration, and supportive care.
Is Chikungunya contagious from person to person?
No, chikungunya is not directly contagious between people. It requires a mosquito vector to transmit the virus.
Can you get chikungunya more than once?
Reinfection is rare. Once infected, people usually develop lifelong immunity to the chikungunya virus.
Where can I find the best internal medicine specialist near me?
Artemis Hospitals has some of the best internal medicine specialists in Gurgaon offering comprehensive treatment for chikungunya, dengue, malaria, etc. To know more, get in touch with us to book an appointment with our internal medicine specialists.
Is there a vaccine for chikungunya?
As of now, there is no commercially available vaccine for chikungunya, though several candidates are under development.
Can chikungunya cause long-term health problems?
Yes, some people experience prolonged joint pain, stiffness, or fatigue for weeks to months after the infection has cleared.
How long does it take to fully recover from chikungunya?
Most people recover within 1 to 2 weeks, but joint pain and weakness can persist for several weeks or even months in some cases.
Is it safe to travel to areas with chikungunya outbreaks?
It can be safe with precautions—use insect repellent, wear long-sleeved clothing, and avoid mosquito-prone areas, especially at dawn and dusk.
How is chikungunya different from dengue and Zika virus?
Chikungunya causes intense joint pain, dengue can lead to bleeding and low platelets, and Zika may cause birth defects; all are spread by Aedes mosquitoes.
What can I expect if I have chikungunya?
You can expect sudden fever, severe joint pain, fatigue, and rash. Symptoms usually resolve in a week, though joint pain may linger.
What's the prognosis for chikungunya?
The prognosis is generally good. Most people recover fully, though some may experience lasting joint issues or fatigue.
