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How to identify the symptoms of Chikungunya Fever

Chikungunya appears to be spreading quite rapidly across Jamaica despite officially confirmed cases remaining relatively low.

Many persons across the island have fallen ill with  symptoms associated with the mosquito-borne virus.

It is of utmost importance for someone displaying symptoms of the virus to seek medical help as soon as possible.

Here are some of the most common symptoms of Chikungunya Fever:

  

1. A high fever is one of the first symptoms of chikungunya, with body temperatures reaching as high as 104 degrees F (40 degrees C). The fever will usually last for about 2 days, before ending abruptly. – Now is the time to purchase a thermometer if you don’t already own one!

2. Joint Pain: The characteristic symptom of chikungunya fever is severe joint pain (or arthritis) in multiple joints, particularly in the extremities.

first symptoms treatment of Chikungunya
Image source: wikihow.com

In most people, the joint pain will only last for a few days, however in older patients it may persist for longer. In some instances, the joint pain has been reported to last for several weeks, months or even years.

3. Many persons suffering from chikungunya fever will develop a rash on their body and limbs. This rash may look like purple or red spots, or small red bumps.

Other common, non specific symptoms include persistent headaches, nausea, muscle pain, fatigue, vomiting, extreme sensitivity to light and partial loss of taste.

There are currently no drugs available to treat chikungunya fever directly but doctors can prescribe medication to alleviate symptoms.

Try your best to reduce how often you are bitten by mosquitoes. Utilize mosquito repellents and wear long sleeved shirts and pants whenever you are able to.

  

Do you know anyone personally who has contracted the Chikungunya virus? Let us know in the comments.

Source: wikiHow

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