Chikungunya is a mosquito transmitted virus which
is becoming more widespread. It has recently been reported in the Caribbean and France. The symptoms usually appear within 3- 7 days
of a bite.
To prevent the mosquito
attack, use repellants on your skin at all times, wearing long sleeves and long
trousers whenever possible. Keep mosquito nets over beds and the doors and
windows screened. Better still, use air conditioning whenever it is available.
Don't allow water to stand in
containers outside.
The
chikungunya rash
There
is no medication available to treat the chikungunya virus.
It is
important to keep your fluid
levels high to prevent dehydration and to take anti-inflammatories and pain
relievers. Get plenty of rest.
If you
suspect a mosquito bite from an area where the virus is present and the
symptoms are present, it is essential to seek
medical advice.
Some people benefit
greatly from physiotherapy and podiatry who can offer therapies which are
designed for the relief of arthritis.
Chikungunya sufferers may require orthotics for many months after the virus has
passed.
After our lady sufferer had visited our surgery, she
said of the Chikungunya Virus
"It has affected me so much that I will never
go back to the Caribbean. Even though my son lives there."
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