Chikungunya Virus Detected in Caribbean

Planning a trip to the Caribbean this year? You may want to bring some mosquito repellant. The CDC just posted a travel advisory for those vacationing in warmer US tourist areas as a mosquito-born virus has been spotted for the first time in that area.

Historically, the chikungunya virus has generally been restricted to African and Asian areas and has been detected in Europe, however, it hadn’t reached the Western Hemisphere until recently – more specifically, 10 unconfirmed cases were detected on the French area of the St. Martin.

Though rarely deadly, the disease is spread via the Aedes aegypti mosquito. Symptoms of the chikungunya virus can include:

- Fever
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Nausea and vomiting
- Muscle and joint pain
- Rash

According to the CDC, this virus potential to keep making it’s way through the Caribbean, as it is a highly traveled area. The organization recommended that travelers pack mosquito repellent, wear long-sleeved shirts and pants , use either air conditioning where available and/or mosquito netting.