First Case of Chikungunya Virus Confirmed in Texas

A mosquito-borne virus that causes severe joint pain and fever has made its way to Texas. A patient in Williamson County was recently diagnosed with the chikungunya virus after a trip to the Caribbean.

The virus, which originated in Africa and has become widespread in the eastern hemisphere, was first diagnosed in the west last year. Researchers say reported infections in the U.S. have so far been contracted by people travelling abroad, but are concerned that the virus could become widespread domestically because two mosquitoes species known to spread the disease are abundant here.

There is currently no cure or vaccine for chikungunya, but it is considered less lethal than West Nile virus. However, it does pose a serious threat to elderly patients. Those infected experience an abrupt onset of fever accompanied by severe joint pain, and, in some cases, muscle pain, headache, nausea, fatigue and rash. These symptoms typically last a few days, but can last weeks in some cases.

The World Health Organization recommends anyone traveling to risk areas use insect repellents containing DEET and minimize skin exposure by wearing long sleeves and pants and checking accommodations for insect screens. Domestically, the risk of being bitten by a mosquito in or around your home can be reduced by eliminating breeding grounds, most often natural or artificial containers of still water where larvae thrive.