Chikungunya Disease in Kenya

If you've recently moved to Kenya or are planning to, it's essential to be aware of Chikungunya Disease, spread by mosquitoes. This illness is frequently confused with the Zika Virus, and many suffer from persistent joint pain after recovering from the initial symptoms.

Chikungunya virus is a mosquito-borne disease that has been a significant health concern in Kenya. The virus, which causes fever and severe joint pain, has been prevalent in the country, affecting both locals and expatriates. This article aims to provide an in-depth understanding of the Chikungunya virus in Kenya, its symptoms, prevalence, prevention methods, and its impact on different age groups and immune-compromised individuals.

What is Chikungunya Disease?

Chikungunya is a viral disease transmitted to humans by infected mosquitoes, specifically the Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus species. The symptoms usually appear between 4 and 8 days after the mosquito bite and can include high fever, severe joint pain, muscle pain, headache, nausea, fatigue, and rash. The joint pain is often debilitating and can last for weeks or even months. In some cases, the disease can lead to long-term effects such as persistent joint pain, eye, neurological and heart complications. The disease is rarely fatal but can contribute to the cause of death in older people.

Where is Chikungunya Most Prevalent in Kenya?

Chikungunya virus is prevalent in several parts of Kenya, particularly in the coastal regions such as Mombasa and Lamu. These areas have a high population of the Aedes mosquitoes that transmit the virus. The disease is also common in urban and semi-urban areas where stagnant water provides breeding grounds for the mosquitoes. Outbreaks often occur during the rainy season when the mosquito population is high.

How do Expats in Kenya Prevent Mosquito Bites?

Preventing mosquito bites is the most effective way to avoid Chikungunya virus. Expats in Kenya can take several measures to protect themselves. These include using insect repellent, wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants, and using air conditioning or window and door screens to keep mosquitoes outside. It's also advisable to sleep under a mosquito bed net, especially during the day when the Aedes mosquitoes are most active. Eliminating mosquito breeding sites by regularly emptying, cleaning or covering containers that can hold water can also help control the mosquito population.

What if I get Chikungunya Virus in Kenya?

If you get infected with the Chikungunya virus in Kenya, it's important to seek medical attention immediately. While there's no specific antiviral drug treatment for Chikungunya, medications can help reduce the fever and relieve other symptoms. Rest and hydration are also crucial for recovery. It's also important to avoid mosquito bites during the first week of illness to prevent further spread of the virus.

Is Chikungunya Virus Contagious?

Chikungunya virus is not directly contagious from person to person. The virus is primarily transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. However, a mosquito can pick up the virus from an infected person and then spread it to other people. Therefore, an infected person can indirectly contribute to the spread of the virus.

Is Chikungunya Virus More Dangerous for Children, Elderly or Immune-compromised?

While Chikungunya virus can infect individuals of all ages, the disease tends to be more severe in newborns infected around the time of birth, older adults (over 65 years), and people with chronic medical conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, or heart disease. These individuals are more likely to develop severe complications. Therefore, they should take extra precautions to avoid mosquito bites.