What Is Chikungunya? Symptoms, Risks & How to Protect Yourself

If you’re planning to travel to certain tropical or subtropical parts of the world, you may have come across the word Chikungunya. But what is it exactly—and should you be worried?

Let’s break it down in simple terms, so you can feel confident and well-prepared before your next trip.

🌍 What Is Chikungunya?

Chikungunya is a viral infection spread by the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito, which also transmits other diseases like dengue and Zika virus.

The name Chikungunya comes from the Kimakonde language and translates to “that which bends up”—referring to the hunched appearance of sufferers who experience intense joint pain during infection.

🦟 Where Is Chikungunya Found?

Chikungunya used to be mostly found in Africa and parts of Asia, but in recent years it has spread globally, with outbreaks reported in:

• The Caribbean

• South and Central America

• Pacific and Indian Ocean islands

• India and Southeast Asia

• Parts of southern Europe (e.g. France and Italy)

🌐 Tip: Check the latest travel alerts from the Foreign Office and WHO if you're visiting an affected region.

🤒 Symptoms of Chikungunya

Chikungunya often comes on suddenly and has two distinct phases:

🔹 Acute Phase (most common)

Begins 3–7 days after being bitten. Symptoms can include:

• High fever

• Severe joint pain (often hands, wrists, ankles)

• Muscle aches

• Headaches

• Nausea or vomiting

This phase typically lasts 7–10 days and resolves on its own.

🔹 Chronic Phase (in some people)

Roughly 40–45% of people go on to develop long-term joint pain or fatigue, similar to arthritis. This can last months or even years, and may seriously impact quality of life.

🔎 Chikungunya is sometimes mistaken for dengue or Zika, so accurate diagnosis is key.

⏱ Incubation Period

Chikungunya’s incubation period is typically 3–7 days, but can range from 1 to 12 days.

👶 Who Is Most at Risk?

Although serious complications are rare, higher-risk groups include:

• Young infants

• Older adults (65+)

• People with existing medical conditions

In these groups, complications and even death can rarely occur.

💉 Is There a Vaccine for Chikungunya?

Yes! There are two approved vaccines in the UK:

🩺 These vaccines are recommended for people travelling to areas where outbreaks are ongoing or frequent, especially if they’re at higher risk of complications.

🛡️ How to Prevent Chikungunya

Besides vaccination, the best way to stay safe is to avoid mosquito bites, particularly around dawn and dusk.

Top Tips:

• Use a high-strength insect repellent (DEET 20–50%)

• Wear long-sleeved clothing and trousers, especially in the evening

• Sleep under a mosquito net if your accommodation doesn’t have screens or air-con

• Avoid stagnant water where mosquitoes may breed

📋 Important Travel Clinic Advice

Before travelling to affected regions:
✅ Book a travel consultation at Ready Health Clinic
✅ Check your destination’s vaccine and health advice
✅ Pack repellents and bite-prevention gear
✅ If eligible, consider getting the chikungunya vaccine

Our clinicians can assess your risk and help determine if you’re a good candidate for vaccination.

🧾 Resources & Further Reading

• IXCHIQ® Summary of Product Characteristics

• VIMKUNYA® SPC

• GOV.UK Foreign Travel Advice

• WHO – Chikungunya Virus Facts

Book Your Travel Health Consultation

Heading somewhere exotic? Don’t leave your health to chance. Visit Ready Health Clinic in Standish for expert travel health advice, vaccinations, and bite prevention tips—all tailored to your destination and personal health needs.

📞 Call us today or book online.
📍Serving Wigan, Chorley, Horwich & beyond.