Chikungunya: Symptoms, Risks, and Accurate Diagnostics

Imagine waking up with a high fever and aching joints after a mosquito bite during the monsoon. Could it be chikungunya? As the rains descend, they not only refresh the earth but also create ideal breeding conditions for mosquitoes. Among these pests, the Aedes mosquitoes carry chikungunya, a viral infection that poses significant health risks. With rising incidences and public awareness, chikungunya has emerged as a serious health concern in India. This blog delves into the latest trends, symptoms, prevention strategies, and treatment options for chikungunya testing in India.

What you need to know about chikungunya?

Chikungunya (CHIKV) is a virus transmitted to humans via the bites of mosquitoes, particularly the Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus species. A person contracts chikungunya when bitten by a mosquito carrying the virus. Although blood transmission may be a possibility, the virus cannot be transferred from person to person by body contact or saliva.

According to a population-based, cross-sectional study conducted in India, 18% of people had previously been exposed to the chikungunya virus. The southern region had a higher seroprevalence rate (43%) than the northeast (3%). A hospital-based study calculated that 24% of cases of chikungunya fever were laboratory-confirmed.

There are currently no specific medicines to treat chikungunya. The best way to prevent chikungunya is to protect yourself by using mosquito repellents, wearing long-sleeved clothing, and eliminating standing water to reduce mosquito breeding.

Key symptoms to watch for Chikungunya:

Typically manifesting within 3 to 7 days post-infection, chikungunya symptoms commonly include:

·       Fever and joint pain

·       Swelling in joints

·       Headache

·       Rash

·       Fatigue

·       Nausea

·       Muscle pain

·       Gastrointestinal Signs

Uncovering the causes of Chikungunya:

·       When mosquitoes feed on an infected individual and subsequently bite that person, they can spread the chikungunya virus to humans.

·       During the first few days of sickness, people infected with the chikungunya virus have high enough quantities of the virus in their blood (viremia) to spread the virus to mosquitoes.

·       Due to the high virus concentration in blood, it can spread by transfusion of blood, managing contaminated blood in a lab, or taking a patient's blood who is contaminated. Note that (the virus cannot be transferred from one person to another or by contact, sneezing, or coughing).

Potential complications of Chikungunya:

Although rare, severe cases of chikungunya can lead to serious complications, including:

·       Inflammation or myocarditis of the heart muscle

·       Seizures

·       Neurological Imbalances

·       Eye or oral disease (retinitis, uveitis)

·       Jaundice caused by liver damage

·       Acute renal illness when kidneys get affected

·       Neurological illnesses, such as meningoencephalitis, Guillain Barre Syndrome, myelitis, or cranial nerve palsies

·       Severe bullous lesions

Diagnosing Chikungunya: Accurate testing options

Using the reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) molecular assay, chikungunya viral RNA can frequently be detected in serum during the first eight days of illness. Antibodies to the chikungunya virus typically form by the end of the first week of sickness. Therefore, patients whose acute-phase samples test negative should have convalescent-phase samples taken in order to firmly rule out the diagnosis.

IgG antibody, this test should be repeated in one to two weeks as it may reveal the presence of anti-chikungunya antibodies. These tests are simple molecular and serology tests, which rarely causes any health complications or side effects.

For accurate and reliable chikungunya testing, Mahajan Imaging & Labs is an ideal choice. With state-of-the-art facilities and a team of experienced professionals, Mahajan Imaging & Labs offers precise RT-PCR and IgG antibody testing for chikungunya, ensuring timely and accurate diagnosis. Our advanced diagnostic centers in Delhi-NCR use cutting-edge equipment to deliver results within 1–2 days for RT-PCR and antibody tests, adhering to stringent quality standards. Additionally, our patient-centric approach ensures a comfortable testing experience with minimal risk of complications, making us a preferred option for Delhi-NCR chikungunya diagnostics.

Concerned about chikungunya symptoms? Book your test today at Mahajan Imaging & Labs through our website, WhatsApp +91 88828 97661, or call +91 11 4118 3838.

Key Takeaways

Chikungunya remains a pressing concern during India's monsoon months. By staying informed about the virus and implementing effective preventive measures, individuals can protect themselves and their communities.

Don't let chikungunya catch you off guard! Stay vigilant and proactive. Educate yourself and others about the virus's symptoms and prevention strategies. If you have any symptoms or believe you've been exposed, consult a healthcare provider immediately.

Taking these steps can significantly help to combat chikungunya outbreaks and promote overall community health.

Frequently Asked Questions

1.    Do I need to prepare for a chikungunya test?

Ans: No special preparation is typically required for RT-PCR or antibody tests. Details regarding the commencement of your symptoms and your past travel to regions where chikungunya is endemic may be requested.

2.    What should I do if my chikungunya test is negative, but I still have symptoms?

Ans: It can be too early to identify the virus or antibodies if an acute-phase test (RT-PCR or early IgM) yields a negative result. To confirm or rule out chikungunya, a convalescent-phase blood sample should be obtained 1-2 weeks later and analyzed for IgG antibodies. It is essential to consult with your health care provider under such circumstances.

3.    Where can I get tested for chikungunya?

Ans: Chikungunya tests are available at diagnostic laboratories, and specialized clinics. Facilities like Mahajan Imaging & Labs, equipped with advanced molecular and serology testing capabilities, are ideal for accurate and reliable results.

4.    How can I book a test at Mahajan Imaging & Labs?

Ans: You can book your test with us through our website, WhatsApp, or by calling our customer care. For quick and easy booking, you can chat with us on WhatsApp at +91 88828 97661 or speak directly to our support team at +91 11 4118 3838. We offer both in-centre testing and home sample collection, ensuring flexibility and convenience based on your preference.