How to Prevent Chikungunya Fever
Chikungunya fever is a disease transmitted to humans by the bite of infected mosquitoes. Sudden onset chikungunya fever usually lasts a few days to a few weeks. There is no vaccine or specific antiviral treatment currently available for the virus.
Know that the best way to prevent the virus infection is to avoid mosquito bites.
Use insect repellent containing DEET, Picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535 on exposed skin. Always follow the directions in the labels.
Wear long sleeves and pants. Ideally treat clothes with permethrin or another insect repellent. Do not apply permethrin to your skin!
Place secure screens on windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out.
Get rid of mosquito breeding sources by emptying standing water from flower pots and buckets. Change the water in pet dishes and replace the water in bird baths weekly. Drill holes in tire swings so water drains out. Keep wading pools empty when not in use.
To avoid further spreading the infection, a person with chikungunya fever should limit their exposure to mosquito bites. They should use repellents when outdoors or stay indoors in areas with screens or under mosquito netting.
The primary carrier of chikungunya virus to humans is Aedes aegypti (the yellow fever mosquito). It is a household container breeder and an aggressive daytime biter attracted to humans.
There is no treatment for chikungunya virus. Treatment is symptomatic. Aspirin should be avoided.
Mosquitoes become infected with the virus when they feed on an infected person.
Incubation period for the virus can be 2-12 days, but is normally 3-7 days.
Some people recommend catnip oil as a mosquito repellent.
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