Chikungunya, a viral disease that reemerged in the 1950s, is growing in significance. With outbreaks increasingly happening in the tropics, they are receiving more attention. Meanwhile, a significant outbreak has recently emerged in Guangdong Province, China. It has been correlated with increased monsoon flooding that is producing perfect conditions for mosquito breeding. As the world faces shifting climate patterns, health officials are urging caution and preventive measures to combat the spread of this virus.
The most recent outbreak in Guangdong Province serves as a timely reminder of a major blind spot. Monsoon flooding is exacerbating the proliferation of Aedes mosquitoes, the primary vectors for transmitting chikungunya, as well. These mosquitoes breed in pools of standing water, so flooding is one of the most important exacerbating factors to the increase in cases. Health authorities have noticed that chikungunya outbreaks have increased in tropical areas over recent decades, raising concerns about its potential spread globally.
Chikungunya’s incubation period is under the one week mark. Symptoms usually start with a high fever, followed by severe joint pain and a rash. While most individuals recover without medical intervention within seven to ten days, some may experience persistent symptoms that last for weeks or even months. As of a week ago, at least 240,000 chikungunya infections have been reported worldwide since the start of 2015.
Precautions and Recommendations
Health authorities are concerned and have stressed the need to take precautionary measures especially for those travelling to areas with high transmissibility. Dr. Todd Ellerin, the chief of infectious disease at South Shore Health in Massachusetts, has this advice for travelers. He knows how vital it is to adopt preventive measures against chikungunya.
“Wear long sleeves and pants, use insect repellent with DEET, and use mosquito netting for babies too young for repellent,” – Dr. Todd Ellerin
These recommendations are meant to limit chances of mosquito bites and infection after that point. Dr. Ellerin also reassured those who have traveled recently:
“If it’s been more than a week since you left a high-risk area, you’re likely in the clear,” – Dr. Todd Ellerin
Now, with two vaccines available in the United States, even more chikungunya protection is offered. These vaccines begin to offer protection in as little as two weeks after a single shot. They provide a first line defense in outbreak prevention.
Changing Climate and Mosquito Behavior
Climate change is altering our world in profound ways, including how and where mosquitoes thrive. Dr. Krutika Kuppalli notes that rising temperatures and increased rainfall are enabling Aedes mosquitoes to expand into new regions beyond their traditional habitats.
“Warmer temperatures and increased rainfall are helping Aedes mosquitoes expand into new regions,” – Dr. Krutika Kuppalli
This widespread expansion increases fears of potential outbreaks in places where chikungunya has not historically been prevalent. With growing evidence linking climate factors to mosquito proliferation, public health officials are working to enhance awareness and preparedness for future outbreaks.
