Chikungunya Virus
The Chikungunya virus is a mosquito-borne virus that causes chikungunya fever, characterized by fever and severe joint pain. It is primarily transmitted by the Aedes mosquitoes, particularly Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus. The virus is prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions, leading to outbreaks in various countries.
Symptoms typically appear 2 to 12 days after being bitten and can include fever, rash, and debilitating joint pain. While most patients recover fully, some may experience long-term joint issues. There is currently no specific antiviral treatment for chikungunya, and prevention focuses on reducing mosquito exposure.