Travel comes with the thrill of new experiences, but it also brings real health risks. In 2025 alone, over 240,000 cases of chikungunya and 90 deaths have already been reported globally, spanning regions from the Americas to Asia and Africa.
If you are wondering what chikungunya virus is, how it spreads, and how to stay safe, this guide will help you understand everything in simple terms.
What is Chikungunya Virus?
Chikungunya is a viral disease spread mainly through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes, particularly the same type that spreads dengue and Zika. The illness usually begins suddenly, with symptoms starting about 4 to 8 days after a mosquito bite. Although it is rarely life-threatening, the infection can cause severe discomfort and affect your daily life for weeks.
Signs of Chikungunya Infection
Recognising the signs of chikungunya infection is essential for early care. The main symptoms include:
- High fever
- Severe joint pain, often in hands and feet
- Headaches
- Muscle pain
- Skin rash
- Fatigue
These chikungunya symptoms can sometimes be confused with dengue, but the intense joint pain is a strong indicator of chikungunya. Most people recover in around a week, but joint pain may last longer in some cases.
Chikungunya Causes and Treatment
The main cause of chikungunya is the bite of an infected mosquito. The mosquitoes that spread the virus usually bite during the day, making it harder to avoid them. There is no specific antiviral treatment available. Care usually focuses on rest, hydration, and pain relief to ease symptoms. Our pharmacists can guide you on supportive care and over-the-counter options that may help with fever and joint pain.
Chikungunya Symptoms and Prevention
As with many mosquito-borne diseases, prevention is the best protection. Simple measures can lower your risk of infection, especially when travelling to areas where outbreaks are common. These include:
- Using mosquito repellent on exposed skin
- Wearing light-coloured, long-sleeved clothing
- Sleeping under mosquito nets if necessary
- Staying in rooms with screens or air conditioning
Understanding how to prevent chikungunya is key to staying safe. These everyday steps can make a big difference when travelling.
Chikungunya Vaccine and Prevention
The chikungunya vaccine is now available in the UK, offering added protection for those travelling to affected regions. It is especially valuable for frequent travellers or anyone at higher risk, providing extra peace of mind alongside other preventive measures.
The chikungunya vaccine and prevention strategies like mosquito control work best when used together. Our experts can give you advice on whether vaccination is suitable for your travel plans.
Protecting Yourself Before You Travel
Your health and safety should always come first when planning a trip. Our pharmacists at Touchwood Pharmacy can provide guidance on the right vaccinations, travel health advice, and preventative measures for mosquito-borne illnesses like chikungunya.
Book your chikungunya vaccine appointment with our experts at Touchwood Pharmacy and get comprehensive travel health support for your journey.
