What are the common causes of sudden onset fever. How can you effectively manage high body temperature. When should you seek medical attention for a fever. What are the potential complications of untreated fevers. How do different age groups experience and respond to fevers.

What Defines a Fever and How Does It Affect the Body?

A fever is characterized by an elevated body temperature above the normal range of 97°F to 99°F (36.1°C to 37.2°C). Typically, a temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher is considered a fever. The hypothalamus, a region in the brain, acts as the body’s thermostat and may reset the body to a higher temperature in response to various stimuli.

How does a fever impact the body’s functioning? When experiencing a fever, the body undergoes several changes:

• Increased metabolic rate
• Elevated heart rate
• Heightened immune system activity
• Potential dehydration due to increased fluid loss

While fevers are generally not dangerous on their own, they serve as an important indicator that something is amiss within the body. In most cases, fevers are the body’s natural defense mechanism against infections and other health issues.

Recognizing Fever Symptoms: More Than Just a High Temperature

Fever symptoms extend beyond an elevated temperature. What are the common signs accompanying a fever? Individuals experiencing a fever may notice:

• Chills or shivering
• Profuse sweating
• Headache
• Weakness and fatigue
• Irritability
• Loss of appetite
• Dehydration

It’s crucial to note that the severity and combination of these symptoms can vary depending on the underlying cause of the fever and the individual’s overall health status. Some people may experience all of these symptoms, while others might only have a few.

The Importance of Monitoring Fever Progression

How can you effectively track a fever’s progression? Regularly monitoring body temperature and associated symptoms is essential. This information can be valuable for healthcare providers in determining the cause and appropriate treatment. Consider keeping a fever journal, noting:

1. Temperature readings at different times of the day
2. Onset and duration of other symptoms
3. Any medications taken and their effects
4. Fluid intake and urinary output

Unraveling the Diverse Causes of Sudden Onset Fever

What triggers a sudden onset fever? The causes of fever are diverse, ranging from common infections to more complex medical conditions. Some of the most frequent causes include:

• Viral infections (e.g., common cold, influenza, COVID-19)
• Bacterial infections (e.g., strep throat, urinary tract infections)
• Fungal infections
• Parasitic infections (e.g., malaria)
• Autoimmune disorders (e.g., lupus, rheumatoid arthritis)
• Medications and vaccines
• Heat exhaustion or heat stroke
• Hormonal imbalances (e.g., hyperthyroidism)
• Certain cancers

It’s important to recognize that fever is a symptom, not a disease itself. The underlying cause determines the appropriate treatment approach and potential complications.

The Role of Infections in Fever Development

How do infections lead to fever? When pathogens invade the body, the immune system responds by releasing substances called pyrogens. These pyrogens travel to the hypothalamus, triggering an increase in body temperature. This elevated temperature creates an environment less favorable for pathogen growth while enhancing immune system function.

Different types of infections can cause varying fever patterns:

• Continuous fever: Temperature remains above normal throughout the day, with little fluctuation
• Intermittent fever: Temperature returns to normal between fever spikes
• Remittent fever: Temperature fluctuates but never returns to normal
• Relapsing fever: Fever-free periods alternating with fever spikes over days or weeks

Diagnosing the Root Cause of Fever: A Multifaceted Approach

How do healthcare professionals determine the underlying cause of a fever? Diagnosing the root cause of a fever involves a comprehensive approach:

1. Detailed medical history
2. Physical examination
3. Laboratory tests (e.g., blood work, urine analysis)
4. Imaging studies (if necessary)
5. Specialized tests based on suspected causes

What questions might a healthcare provider ask during diagnosis? Expect inquiries about:

• Recent travel history
• Exposure to infectious individuals
• Current medications and recent changes
• Chronic health conditions
• Recent injuries or surgical procedures
• Vaccination history

The Challenge of Fever of Unknown Origin (FUO)

What happens when the cause of a fever remains elusive? In some cases, despite thorough investigation, the cause of a fever may not be immediately apparent. This situation is referred to as a Fever of Unknown Origin (FUO). FUO is defined as a fever lasting more than three weeks with temperatures above 101°F (38.3°C) on several occasions, where the cause remains unidentified after one week of intensive investigation.

Potential causes of FUO include:

• Occult infections
• Connective tissue disorders
• Malignancies
• Granulomatous diseases
• Drug-induced fevers

Diagnosing FUO often requires a multidisciplinary approach and may involve extensive testing and consultation with various specialists.

Effective Fever Management: Balancing Comfort and Recovery

How can you effectively manage a fever? The approach to fever management depends on several factors, including the underlying cause, the individual’s age, and overall health status. In many cases, fever is a beneficial response that aids in fighting infections, and treatment may not always be necessary.

However, when fever causes discomfort or poses risks, the following strategies can be employed:

• Over-the-counter medications (e.g., acetaminophen, ibuprofen)
• Adequate hydration
• Rest and sleep
• Cool compresses or lukewarm baths
• Light, breathable clothing and bedding
• Proper ventilation of the room

It’s crucial to note that aspirin should be avoided in children and teenagers due to the risk of Reye’s syndrome, a rare but serious condition.

The Role of Antipyretic Medications in Fever Management

How do antipyretic medications work to reduce fever? Antipyretic drugs, such as acetaminophen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), work by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins in the hypothalamus. This action helps reset the body’s thermostat to a lower temperature.

While these medications can provide relief, it’s important to use them judiciously:

• Follow recommended dosages and intervals
• Be aware of potential side effects and drug interactions
• Avoid combining different antipyretics unless advised by a healthcare provider
• Remember that reducing fever doesn’t necessarily speed up recovery from the underlying condition

When to Seek Medical Attention: Recognizing Serious Fever Scenarios

At what point should you consult a healthcare professional about a fever? While most fevers resolve on their own, certain situations warrant immediate medical attention:

• Infants under 3 months with a rectal temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher
• Children aged 3-6 months with a temperature above 102°F (38.9°C)
• Any fever in children accompanied by severe symptoms (e.g., lethargy, severe headache, breathing difficulties)
• Adults with a temperature above 103°F (39.4°C)
• Fever lasting more than three days
• Fever accompanied by severe pain, confusion, or other concerning symptoms
• Fever in individuals with compromised immune systems or chronic health conditions

Understanding Febrile Seizures in Children

What are febrile seizures, and how do they relate to fever in children? Febrile seizures are convulsions that can occur in young children when they have a fever. While alarming, they are generally not harmful and don’t indicate epilepsy. However, they require prompt medical evaluation.

Key points about febrile seizures:

• Most common in children aged 6 months to 5 years
• Usually last less than five minutes
• May cause loss of consciousness and muscle rigidity or twitching
• Require immediate medical attention, especially if lasting longer than 5 minutes or recurring within 24 hours

Special Considerations: Fever Management in Different Age Groups

How does fever management differ across age groups? The approach to fever management varies depending on the individual’s age:

Infants (0-3 months)

Fever in very young infants is always considered serious and requires immediate medical attention. This age group is at higher risk for severe infections due to their immature immune systems.

Older Infants and Toddlers (3 months – 3 years)

For this age group, the height of the fever and accompanying symptoms guide management. Hydration is crucial, and antipyretic medications may be used under medical guidance.

Children (3-12 years)

Fever in this age group is often less concerning if the child remains active and hydrated. Focus on comfort measures and monitor for signs of serious illness.

Adolescents and Adults

Adults can typically manage low-grade fevers at home. However, high fevers or those accompanied by severe symptoms warrant medical evaluation.

Elderly Individuals

Older adults may not always develop high fevers even with serious infections. Any change in body temperature or new symptoms should be taken seriously in this population.

Fever Prevention: Strategies to Reduce Risk of Infection-Related Fevers

How can you minimize the risk of developing infection-related fevers? While not all fevers are preventable, several strategies can reduce the risk of infections that commonly cause fevers:

• Practice good hand hygiene
• Stay up-to-date on vaccinations
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle (balanced diet, regular exercise, adequate sleep)
• Avoid close contact with sick individuals
• Practice food safety to prevent foodborne illnesses
• Use insect repellent and take precautions in areas with mosquito-borne diseases
• Stay hydrated and cool in hot weather to prevent heat-related illnesses

By incorporating these preventive measures into daily life, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of developing fevers and associated illnesses.

The Role of Immunizations in Fever Prevention

How do vaccines contribute to fever prevention? Vaccines play a crucial role in preventing many infectious diseases that can cause fevers. They work by stimulating the immune system to recognize and fight specific pathogens, thereby preventing infection or reducing its severity.

Key points about vaccines and fever prevention:

• Vaccines are available for many common fever-causing infections (e.g., influenza, measles, pneumococcal disease)
• Some vaccines may cause a mild, short-lived fever as a side effect, which is a normal immune response
• The benefits of vaccination in preventing serious illnesses far outweigh the risk of vaccine-induced fever
• Maintaining an up-to-date vaccination schedule is crucial for individuals of all ages

Fever Myths and Misconceptions: Separating Fact from Fiction

What are some common misconceptions about fever, and what’s the truth behind them? Despite being a common symptom, fever is surrounded by numerous myths and misunderstandings. Let’s address some of these:

Myth 1: Fever is always harmful and must be treated aggressively

Truth: Fever is often a beneficial immune response. Mild to moderate fevers don’t necessarily require treatment unless they cause discomfort.

Myth 2: The height of a fever correlates with the severity of illness

Truth: The degree of fever doesn’t always indicate how serious the underlying condition is. Some severe infections may cause low-grade fevers, while less serious conditions can sometimes produce high fevers.

Myth 3: Teething causes high fevers in infants

Truth: While teething may cause a slight increase in body temperature, it doesn’t typically cause high fevers. Any fever above 101°F in an infant should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

Myth 4: Bundling up helps “sweat out” a fever

Truth: Overheating can actually raise body temperature further and increase discomfort. Light clothing and a comfortable room temperature are more beneficial.

Myth 5: Fever always indicates infection

Truth: While infections are a common cause of fever, there are numerous non-infectious causes, including autoimmune disorders, certain medications, and some cancers.

Understanding these facts can help individuals make more informed decisions about fever management and when to seek medical attention.

The Future of Fever Management: Emerging Technologies and Approaches

What innovations are shaping the future of fever detection and management? As medical technology advances, new approaches to fever monitoring and treatment are emerging:

• Continuous temperature monitoring devices
• AI-powered diagnostic tools for identifying fever patterns
• Targeted antipyretic drugs with fewer side effects
• Advanced imaging techniques for identifying sources of fever
• Telemedicine platforms for remote fever assessment and management

These advancements promise to enhance our ability to detect, diagnose, and manage fevers more effectively, potentially leading to improved patient outcomes and reduced healthcare costs.

The Potential of Wearable Technology in Fever Monitoring

How might wearable devices revolutionize fever detection and management? Wearable technology offers exciting possibilities for continuous, non-invasive temperature monitoring. These devices could provide:

• Real-time temperature tracking
• Early detection of fever onset
• Alerts for caregivers or healthcare providers
• Integration with electronic health records for comprehensive fever pattern analysis

High Temperature Causes and Treatments

Written by Rick Ansorge

• What Is a Fever?
• Fever Symptoms
• Fever Causes
• Fever Diagnosis
• Fever Treatments

A fever is a body temperature that’s higher than is considered normal. It’s also called a high temperature, hyperthermia, or pyrexia, and it’s usually a sign that your body is working to keep you healthy from an infection. Normal body temperatures are different for everyone, but they lie within the range of 97 to 99. A temperature of 100.4 or higher is considered a fever.

A part of your brain called the hypothalamus controls your body temperature. In response to an infection, illness, or some other cause, the hypothalamus may reset the body to a higher temperature. So when a fever comes on, it’s a sign that something is going on in your body.

Fevers themselves generally aren’t dangerous, but you should check in with your doctor if:

• An adult’s temperature is 103 or higher
• A very young infant (under 3 months) has a rectal temperature 100. 4 or higher (call your doctor or go to an emergency room immediately)
• A 3-6-month-old has a higher than normal rectal temperature and is also irritable or sleepy (call your doctor right away)
• A 3-6-month-old has a 102 or higher rectal temperature
• A 6-24-month-old has a fever higher than 102 for more than a day or with other symptoms such as a cough or diarrhea
• A child older than 2 has a fever that comes with rash, real discomfort, irritability, listlessness, headache, stiff neck, or repeated diarrhea or vomiting
• An infant or child has a seizure
• Any temperature over 104 in a child, which could cause a seizure
• Any fever that starts after someone has been in hot temperatures, which could be a sign of heat stroke
• The fever doesn’t go down after taking over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen in the appropriate doses
• You’ve been in contact with someone who has COVID-19

Fevers are signs of some sort of illness or infection. When you have, you may also notice these symptoms:

• Chills or shivering
• Sweating
• Headache
• Feeling weak
• Being irritable
• Losing your appetite
• Being dehydrated

A fever can be a sign of several health conditions, which may or may not need medical treatment.

The most common causes of fever are infections such as colds and stomach bugs (gastroenteritis). Other causes include:

• Infections of the ear, lung, skin, throat, bladder, or kidney
• Heat exhaustion
• COVID-19
• Sunburn
• Conditions that cause inflammation, such as rheumatoid arthritis
• Side effects of medications
• Vaccines and immunizations
• Blood clots
• Autoimmune conditions such as lupus and inflammatory bowel disease (IBS)
• Cancer
• Hormone disorders such as hyperthyroidism
• Illegal drugs such as amphetamines and cocaine
• Teething in babies can cause a mild, low-grade fever (not over 101 degrees)

Although a fever is easy to measure with a thermometer, finding its cause can be hard. Besides a physical exam, your doctor will ask about symptoms and conditions, medications, and if you’ve recently traveled to areas with infections or have other infection risks. A malaria infection, for example, may cause a fever that typically comes back. Some areas of the U.S. are hot spots for infections such as Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever.

Your doctor may ask if you have been around someone with COVID-19 or have any other symptoms of COVID-19.

Sometimes, you may have a “fever of unknown origin.” In such cases, the cause could be an unusual or not obvious condition such as a chronic infection, a connective tissue disorder, cancer, or another problem.

Fever is usually associated with physical discomfort, and most people feel better when a fever is treated. But depending on your age, physical condition, and the underlying cause of your fever, you may or may not require medical treatment for the fever alone. Many experts believe that fever is a natural bodily defense against infection. There are also many non-infectious causes of fever.

Treatments vary depending on the cause of the fever. For example, antibiotics would be used for a bacterial infection such as strep throat.

The most common treatments for fever include over-the-counter drugs such as acetaminophen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen and naproxen. Children and teens should not take aspirin because it’s linked to a condition called Reye’s syndrome.

Stay comfortable by: 

• Drinking a lot of clear liquids such as water, broth, and juices or a rehydration drink.
• Taking a lukewarm bath.
• Resting.
• Keeping yourself cool with lightweight clothing and bed coverings.

Top Picks

High Temperature Causes and Treatments

Written by Rick Ansorge

• What Is a Fever?
• Fever Symptoms
• Fever Causes
• Fever Diagnosis
• Fever Treatments

A fever is a body temperature that’s higher than is considered normal. It’s also called a high temperature, hyperthermia, or pyrexia, and it’s usually a sign that your body is working to keep you healthy from an infection. Normal body temperatures are different for everyone, but they lie within the range of 97 to 99. A temperature of 100.4 or higher is considered a fever.

A part of your brain called the hypothalamus controls your body temperature. In response to an infection, illness, or some other cause, the hypothalamus may reset the body to a higher temperature. So when a fever comes on, it’s a sign that something is going on in your body.

Fevers themselves generally aren’t dangerous, but you should check in with your doctor if:

• An adult’s temperature is 103 or higher
• A very young infant (under 3 months) has a rectal temperature 100.4 or higher (call your doctor or go to an emergency room immediately)
• A 3-6-month-old has a higher than normal rectal temperature and is also irritable or sleepy (call your doctor right away)
• A 3-6-month-old has a 102 or higher rectal temperature
• A 6-24-month-old has a fever higher than 102 for more than a day or with other symptoms such as a cough or diarrhea
• A child older than 2 has a fever that comes with rash, real discomfort, irritability, listlessness, headache, stiff neck, or repeated diarrhea or vomiting
• An infant or child has a seizure
• Any temperature over 104 in a child, which could cause a seizure
• Any fever that starts after someone has been in hot temperatures, which could be a sign of heat stroke
• The fever doesn’t go down after taking over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen in the appropriate doses
• You’ve been in contact with someone who has COVID-19

Fevers are signs of some sort of illness or infection. When you have, you may also notice these symptoms:

• Chills or shivering
• Sweating
• Headache
• Feeling weak
• Being irritable
• Losing your appetite
• Being dehydrated

A fever can be a sign of several health conditions, which may or may not need medical treatment.

The most common causes of fever are infections such as colds and stomach bugs (gastroenteritis). Other causes include:

• Infections of the ear, lung, skin, throat, bladder, or kidney
• Heat exhaustion
• COVID-19
• Sunburn
• Conditions that cause inflammation, such as rheumatoid arthritis
• Side effects of medications
• Vaccines and immunizations
• Blood clots
• Autoimmune conditions such as lupus and inflammatory bowel disease (IBS)
• Cancer
• Hormone disorders such as hyperthyroidism
• Illegal drugs such as amphetamines and cocaine
• Teething in babies can cause a mild, low-grade fever (not over 101 degrees)

Although a fever is easy to measure with a thermometer, finding its cause can be hard. Besides a physical exam, your doctor will ask about symptoms and conditions, medications, and if you’ve recently traveled to areas with infections or have other infection risks. A malaria infection, for example, may cause a fever that typically comes back. Some areas of the U.S. are hot spots for infections such as Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever.

Your doctor may ask if you have been around someone with COVID-19 or have any other symptoms of COVID-19.

Sometimes, you may have a “fever of unknown origin.” In such cases, the cause could be an unusual or not obvious condition such as a chronic infection, a connective tissue disorder, cancer, or another problem.

Fever is usually associated with physical discomfort, and most people feel better when a fever is treated. But depending on your age, physical condition, and the underlying cause of your fever, you may or may not require medical treatment for the fever alone. Many experts believe that fever is a natural bodily defense against infection. There are also many non-infectious causes of fever.

Treatments vary depending on the cause of the fever. For example, antibiotics would be used for a bacterial infection such as strep throat.

The most common treatments for fever include over-the-counter drugs such as acetaminophen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen and naproxen. Children and teens should not take aspirin because it’s linked to a condition called Reye’s syndrome.

Stay comfortable by: 

• Drinking a lot of clear liquids such as water, broth, and juices or a rehydration drink.
• Taking a lukewarm bath.
• Resting.
• Keeping yourself cool with lightweight clothing and bed coverings.

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Roseola or three-day fever

Alexey Shaposhnikov

Dermatologist

April 25, 2021

to the pediatrician, but also to the dermatologist.

Roseola infantum has many names: sudden exanthema, three-day fever, pseudorubella . In many cases, it is not diagnosed as a separate disease, when the temperature rises, a diagnosis of ARVI is made, the rash is attributed to an allergy to medications taken during the illness.

What is baby roseola?

Roseola in childhood is a viral disease characterized by a sudden rise in temperature, and then, after its decrease, the appearance of a small pink rash that spreads throughout the body. In the first three days, before the appearance of rashes, it is difficult to make a diagnosis, since there are no characteristic symptoms other than temperature. It is the appearance of the rash that helps determine that it is roseola.

This infection is transmitted presumably by airborne droplets, incubation period 9-12 days. Laboratory confirmation of the diagnosis is not required, and, as a rule, no tests are performed. Usually sick children from 6 months to 3 years, mainly in the spring-autumn period.

What pathogen causes this disease?

Most often, roseola is caused by the human herpes virus 6, rarely 7. Herpes virus 6 (HHV-6) is very widespread; at birth, babies have antibodies from their mother that protect it. Their levels are significantly reduced by 4 months, and the child becomes susceptible to infection. After 2 years, the immune system can already quite successfully cope with the virus, preventing the development of an acute illness. But in the interval, the body of children is most vulnerable, the peak incidence occurs at 6-12 months.

There is no specific prevention of roseola, among the general measures that reduce the risk of the disease, one can note regular ventilation of the premises where the child is located, limiting close bodily contact with adults (do not kiss a small child on the lips, nose, lick spoons and nipples, etc. Further).

After the illness, persistent immunity is developed , cases of re-infection are quite rare, but sometimes they occur. After 4 years, almost all examined children have antibodies to this virus.

Characteristic signs of the disease?

1. Temperature rise to 38°C-40°C without respiratory symptoms (runny nose, cough, sore throat) and rash. An increase in temperature is the body’s reaction to the presence of a virus in the blood. On average, the temperature lasts 3 days.
2. Eruption of small pale pink spots mainly on the neck and trunk, in smaller amounts on the face and extremities, 1-2 days after the fever has ceased. Often around the elements of the rash you can see a pale rim.
3. The rash does not itch and resolves on its own within a few days or weeks.

How is roseola different from rubella?

With rubella, the rash appears simultaneously with the temperature, is located mainly on the limbs, slightly different in appearance. Also, rubella is not characterized by such a sharp and high rise in temperature.

Are there complications?

In the vast majority of cases, the body copes on its own and without consequences. High fever with sudden exanthema can cause febrile convulsions . As a rule, they are not dangerous, pass without consequences for the child and are not associated with damage to the nervous system or brain. But, if this happened for the first time, the child should be examined by a neurologist.

Sometimes there are concomitant symptoms in the form of inflammation in the nasopharynx and swollen lymph nodes. Very rarely, with an appropriate predisposition, neurological complications of the disease are possible: encephalitis, meningitis.

How to treat roseola?

The child should be examined by a pediatrician, as a high temperature can be not only with roseola, but also with other infectious diseases that require treatment, such as otitis media, urinary tract infections.

There is no specific treatment for the virus that causes roseola, so the treatment is symptomatic: antipyretics at high fever to relieve the child’s condition. While the temperature is holding, it is important to ensure that the child consumes enough fluids. If the child refuses to eat, you do not need to force feed, as soon as the condition improves, the appetite will return.

When a rash appears, it is not necessary to lubricate it with something or take antiallergic drugs. The spots disappear on their own, leaving no traces, a slight peeling of the skin is possible, which also disappears without treatment. The child during this period can be bathed. After bathing, there may be an increase in the brightness of the rash due to the flow of blood to the skin, this is a temporary phenomenon that does not worsen the course of the disease.

Antiviral treatment is given for severe disease, usually in immunocompromised children. When treating patients with immunodeficiency, consultation of a pediatric infectious disease specialist is necessary.

Chikungunya

Chikungunya

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• Chikungunya

WHO

Mosquito treatment in the Dominican Republic

©
Photo

Key Facts

• Chikungunya is a disease transmitted to humans by mosquitoes in Africa, Asia and the Americas; sporadic outbreaks of the disease have also been reported in other regions.
• Because chikungunya has clinical manifestations similar to those of dengue and zika, this may well make the diagnosis of chikungunya difficult.
• Chikungunya causes fever and severe joint pain, which is often debilitating and varies in duration; other symptoms include joint swelling, muscle pain, headache, nausea, fatigue, and rash.
• There is currently no approved vaccine or specific therapy for infectious diseases caused by chikungunya virus.
• Due to problems with registration and diagnosis, the number of persons affected by chikungunya is an underestimate.
• Cases of severe chikungunya symptoms and death are rare and usually associated with other pre-existing health problems.

Overview

Chikungunya is a mosquito-borne viral disease caused by the chikungunya virus (CHIKV), an RNA virus of the alphavirus genus in the togavirus family. The name chikungunya comes from the Kimakonde verb meaning “to become
twisted. ”

Spread and outbreaks

The CHIKV virus was first detected in 1952 in the United Republic of Tanzania and later in other countries in Africa and Asia (1) . Outbreaks in urban areas were first reported in Thailand in 1967 and in India in the 1970s. (2) .
Since 2004, outbreaks of CHIKV have become more frequent and widespread, in part due to viral adaptations that make the virus more easily spread by the Aedes albopictus mosquitoes. To date, CHIKV has been identified in more than 110 countries in Asia,
Africa, Europe and America. Transmission of the virus was interrupted on the islands, where a significant part of the population was infected and then became immune; however, transmission often continues in countries where large parts of the population are still
not infected.

All regions with established mosquito populations Aedes aegypti or Aedes albopictus are currently experiencing local mosquito transmission.

Transmission

Chikungunya virus is transmitted by mosquitoes, most commonly Aedes (Stegomyia) aegypti and Aedes (Stegomyia) albopictus which can also carry den viruses ge and zika. These mosquitoes bite mainly during daylight hours.
days. They lay their eggs in stagnant water. Both species feed outdoors, while mosquitoes Ae. aegypti also feed indoors.

When a naïve (uninfected) mosquito ingests the blood of a person infected with CHIKV, viral particles can be transmitted to the mosquito. Then the virus replicates in the mosquito for some time, penetrating into its salivary glands, after which it
may be transferred to a new naive host at the next bite. In the body of a newly infected person, the virus replicates and reaches high concentrations, after which it can be transmitted to other mosquitoes, with the subsequent continuation of the transmission cycle.

Symptoms

In symptomatic patients, chikugunya usually develops 4–8 days (range 2–12 days) after being bitten by an infected mosquito. It is characterized by sudden fever, often accompanied by severe joint pain. joint pain often
it can be very exhausting; it usually goes away in a few days, but it can last for weeks, months, or even years. Other common signs and symptoms of the disease include joint swelling, muscle pain, headache, nausea, and fatigue.
and rash. Because the disease can mimic other arboviruses, including dengue and zika, in symptoms, it can be misdiagnosed. In the absence of significant joint pain, symptoms in infected people are usually
mild in nature and the infection may go unrecognized.

In most cases, patients who have had an infection recover completely; however, isolated cases of ophthalmic, cardiovascular, and neurological complications have been reported in CHIKV. Patients in the older age group are at risk
risk of severe disease. Newborns infected during childbirth and elderly people with comorbidities can become seriously ill, and CHIKV infection can increase the risk of death.

After recovery, the patient is likely to remain immune to protect against further infections.

Diagnosis

Chikungunya virus can be detected directly in blood samples collected during the first week of illness, particularly by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR).

Other tests can detect a person’s immune response to chikungunya virus infection. They are usually used after the first week of infection to test for antibodies to the virus. Antibody levels are usually detectable by the first week after illness onset
and can be detected further within about 2 months.

Medicines and vaccines

Patient care aims, among other things, at reducing fever and joint pain with antipyretics, optimal pain medications, drinking plenty of fluids and resting. Any special antiviral drugs for the treatment
no chikungunya.

Paracetamol or acetaminophen is recommended for pain relief and fever until dengue infections have been ruled out, as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may increase the risk of bleeding.

Although there are currently several vaccines in various stages of development (as of December 2022), they are not yet licensed. There are currently no vaccines available on the market to protect against infection with chikungunya virus.

Prevention and control

The best way to prevent infection is to protect yourself from mosquito bites. Patients with suspected CHIKV infection should avoid mosquito bites during the first week of illness to prevent further transmission of the infection to mosquitoes that, in
in turn can infect other people.

The main method to reduce the transmission of CHIKV is mosquito vector control. This requires the mobilization of local communities, which play a critical role in reducing mosquito breeding sites through weekly emptying and cleaning.
water tanks, waste management and support for local mosquito control programs.

During outbreaks, insecticides can be used that can be sprayed into the air to kill flying mosquitoes, applied to the inside and outside of containers where mosquitoes land, and used to treat water in containers
to kill immature larvae. These measures may also be used by public health authorities as an emergency measure to limit the mosquito population.

For protection during chikungunya outbreaks, it is recommended to wear clothing that provides maximum skin protection against mosquito bites during the day. Protective nets should be installed on window and door openings to prevent mosquitoes from entering houses.
Exposed areas of the skin or clothing can be sprayed with repellents in strict accordance with the instructions contained in the annotations. Repellents must contain DEET, IR3535, or icaridin.

Because chikungunya mosquitoes are most active during the daytime, daytime sleepers, especially young children, the sick and the elderly, can be effectively protected with treated
mosquito nets insecticide.

Travelers to areas of active CHIKV transmission should take basic precautions, including the use of insect repellent, long-sleeved clothing and trousers, and ensure that rooms are equipped with window
nets to prevent the entry of mosquitoes.

WHO response

WHO supports countries in arbovirus surveillance and control through the Global Arbovirus Initiative.

The following measures are being taken by WHO to control chikungunya:

• assistance to countries in confirming outbreaks through a network of collaborating laboratories;
• provide technical and policy support to countries on effective control of outbreaks of mosquito-borne diseases;
• monitoring the development of new disease control agents, including insecticides and their application technologies;
• development of evidence-based strategies, policies and plans to deal with outbreaks;
• provide technical and methodological support to countries on effective case management and outbreak response;
• assisting countries to modernize their reporting systems;
• organizing regional training events with a number of collaborating centers on clinical management, diagnosis and vector control;
• Publication of guidelines and handbooks for Member States on surveillance, laboratory support, clinical case management and vector control; and
• Promoting comprehensive multidisciplinary approaches to the treatment of arbovirus diseases through the implementation of the Global Arbovirus Initiative.