Chikungunya

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Aug 4, 2025.

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What is chikungunya?

Chikungunya is a disease caused by a virus. The virus is usually spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. The virus may be spread through a blood transfusion. You may be infected through contact with infected blood, such as in a lab or during a blood draw. An unborn baby may become infected during pregnancy or delivery.

What are the signs and symptoms of chikungunya?

Any of the following may develop 3 to 7 days after you are infected:

• A fever that develops suddenly
• Joint pain or swelling
• Muscle pain or a headache
• Skin rash
• Whites of the eyes become red

How is chikungunya diagnosed?

Your healthcare provider will examine you and ask about your symptoms. Tell your provider if you recently traveled. Also tell your provider if you got any mosquito bites in the weeks before symptoms began. A blood test may be used to check for the chikungunya virus.

How is chikungunya treated?

Treatment may not be needed. You should feel better after about a week. You may continue to have joint pain for several months. Treatment mainly involves managing symptoms:

• Rest as directed. Ask your healthcare provider when you can return to your normal activities.
• Drink plenty of liquids as directed. Liquids can prevent dehydration. Ask how much liquid to drink each day and which liquids are best for you.
• Medicine such as acetaminophen may help relieve pain, stiffness, and fever.

What can I do to prevent chikungunya?

• Ask about chikungunya vaccines. Vaccination is recommended at least 2 weeks before you travel to where the virus is common. Ask when to get vaccinated if your work increases your risk for infection. Two vaccines are available to prevent chikungunya. The live vaccine is approved for adults aged 18 to 59. The inactivated vaccine is approved for anyone 12 years or older. You will not need a booster dose. No vaccine is approved for children younger than 12 years.
• Prevent mosquito bites. Apply insect repellant before you go outdoors. Wear a hat, pants, and a long-sleeved shirt. Tuck your pants into your socks or boots. Tuck your shirt into your pants. Use repellant that contains DEET, picaridin, or oil of eucalyptus on your skin. Use permethrin spray or a picaridin repellant on your clothes. Do not apply insect repellent to a child younger than 2 months. Instead, dress your child in clothing that covers his or her arms and legs.
• Decrease the risk for insects in your yard and home. Mow your lawn regularly. Trim the grass around birdbaths and fences. Clear out leaf piles. Stack firewood in a dry, sunny area. Empty any standing water. Put screens on all open windows and doors. Use citronella candles outdoors to keep mosquitos away.

Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) or have someone call if:

• You have a seizure.
• You have trouble breathing.
• You are confused.

When should I seek immediate care?

• You have a high fever that does not come down with fever medicine.
• You have severe joint pain and swelling.
• You are vomiting so often you cannot keep liquids down.
• You have a severe headache or neck stiffness.

When should I call my doctor?

• Your symptoms do not get better in 1 week, or they get worse.
• You have signs of dehydration, such as a dry mouth, sunken eyes, or little or no urine.
• You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.

Care Agreement

You have the right to help plan your care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your healthcare providers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment. The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

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