Monsoons are here, and with them, a plethora of diseases are also here. One of the major diseases that plagues India is vector-borne diseases. Mosquitoes pose a significant problem, spreading infectious diseases such as dengue, malaria, and chikungunya. In India, in 2019, 9,756 confirmed cases of Chikungunya were recorded, whereas in 2024, 17,930 confirmed cases were recorded (National Centre for Vector-Borne Diseases Control). Out of all the states, Karnataka has been consistently seeing the highest number of Chikungunya cases. In this article, we will shift our focus solely on Chikungunya, its causes, diagnosis, symptoms and treatments. So stick till the end.
Chikungunya is an infectious vector-borne disease that is spread by infected mosquitoes caused due to the Chikungunya Virus (CHIKV). This is an RNA virus in the alphavirus genus of the family Togaviridae. Chikungunya is derived from a word in a language called Kimakonde, which originates from southern Tanzania. It means “which bends up”, indicating the posture of the infected person having joint pains due to the disease.
Chikungunya is primarily spread by mosquitoes and is especially prevalent during and after the monsoon season. Understanding how it spreads and what causes it can help in taking the right preventive measures.
Chikungunya is transmitted by the bite of infected Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes. These mosquitoes are aggressive daytime biters and tend to bite most frequently in early morning and late afternoon.
The illness is caused by the Chikungunya virus (CHIKV), a member of the Alphavirus genus, which is part of the Togaviridae family.
The virus enters the mosquito when it feeds on the blood of an infected person. After an incubation period inside the mosquito (usually 2–10 days), the mosquito becomes capable of transmitting the virus to another person through a bite. Once infected, a mosquito remains infectious for life.
Poor sanitation, stagnant water, open drains, and uncovered water storage create ideal breeding grounds for Aedes mosquitoes, increasing the risk of transmission in both urban and rural areas.
Direct transmission from person to person is extremely rare. However, rare instances such as mother-to-child transmission during childbirth and transmission through infected blood transfusion have occurred.
Once the virus enters the human body, it replicates in fibroblasts and other cells in the connective tissue, spreading through the bloodstream and triggering the immune system. This results in fever, rash, and severe joint pain.
The typical incubation period for Chikungunya is 2 to 7 days, although symptoms can sometimes appear up to 12 days after the mosquito bite. During this period, the person may not show symptoms but can still be a source of infection for mosquitoes.
Chikungunya symptoms often come as a surprise, as it takes a while to incubate. Here are the major symptoms of Chikungunya:
Chikungunya can easily be confused with dengue or Zika virus, as they have very similar symptoms. Hence, diagnosis of chikungunya is not only important for early treatment, but also for identification.. The diagnosis is usually based on a combination of clinical symptoms and laboratory tests. Since early symptoms often overlap with other vector-borne diseases, specific tests help confirm the presence of the Chikungunya virus in the body.
RT-PCR is the most accurate test in the early stages of infection (typically within the first 7 days of symptom onset). It detects the genetic material (RNA) of the virus in the blood and provides a clear confirmation.
Serological tests detect antibodies produced by the immune system in response to the virus. IgM antibodies are usually detectable 4–7 days after the onset of symptoms and can last for several weeks, indicating recent infection. IgG antibodies may suggest past exposure.
This method involves growing the virus from a blood sample in a lab, which confirms its presence. It’s used less frequently due to its complexity and the need for specialised labs, but it remains a definitive diagnostic method.
Doctors consider clinical signs and symptoms, especially sudden fever with joint pain, rash, and fatigue. The combination of symptoms and a history of travel or exposure to mosquito-prone areas helps guide the initial diagnosis.
Blood samples are usually taken for both RT-PCR and serological testing. Testing is advised, particularly during outbreaks or if a patient lives in or has travelled to an endemic area. Labs follow standard procedures based on WHO or ICMR guidelines.
As Chikungunya do not exactly have a cure, symptom management, proper rest and supportive care are the key to treating Chikungunya. Here’s a more detailed view:
Paracetamol (acetaminophen) is commonly used to reduce fever and relieve body aches. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can also be used cautiously, especially after ruling out dengue, to manage joint inflammation.
Plenty of rest is essential for the body to recover from fatigue and weakness. Staying well-hydrated by drinking fluids like water, coconut water, and clear soups helps against dehydration caused by fever and vomiting.
Constant joint pain can be managed with mild painkillers, hot or cold compresses, and in some cases, physical therapy or stretching exercises. In chronic cases, doctors may recommend longer-term anti-inflammatory medications.
A balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and proteins supports faster healing. Including immune-boosting foods such as citrus fruits, leafy greens, and proteins can help restore energy and strength.
Patients should continue using mosquito repellents and sleep under nets to prevent mosquitoes from biting and spreading the virus to others, especially during the first week of illness when the viral load is high.
Vaccines are the best way to prevent Chikungunya, as there is no known cure for the disease. Currently, there are 2 known vaccines for Chikungunya – VIMKUNYA and IXCHIQ. However, these vaccines are not widely used and still await review from the WHO and other experts. IXCHIQ (VLA1553) is a live-attenuated vaccine, and VIMKUNYA is a virus-like particle vaccine. IXCHIQ is licensed for adults 18 years and older, while VIMKUNYA is licensed for individuals 12 years and older.
Single-dose, live-attenuated vaccine administered intramuscularly.
One 0.5 mL injection. Currently, no booster dose is recommended.
Clinical trials demonstrated over 98–99% seroconversion by day 28, with immunity shown to last at least 2 years.
Approved for use in individuals aged 18 and above.
Fatigue, headache, muscle pain, fever, and joint pain.
Approved in several countries, including the US, UK, Canada, Brazil, and across the EU. Monitoring and safety reviews are ongoing, especially for older adults.
Single-dose recombinant vaccine composed of virus-like particles (VLPs) with an aluminium hydroxide adjuvant.
One 0.8 mL intramuscular injection via pre-filled syringe.
Induces neutralising antibodies in up to 97.8% of recipients within 21 days, with sustained immunity observed for at least 6 months.
Approved for people aged 12 and older in the US and EU.
Mostly mild to moderate, including injection site pain, fatigue, headache, and muscle aches.
Approved by the US FDA (Feb 2025) and received EMA recommendation (Jan 2025); global rollout ongoing.
As the famous saying goes, prevention is better than a cure. This is especially valid in the case of Chikungunya, considering there is no known cure for the disease. Here are some preventive measures that you can practice to avoid getting infected:
| Myth | Fact |
|---|---|
| Only humans can spread chikungunya | It requires Aedes mosquitoes to transmit—no direct human spread |
| Chikungunya is always fatal | Rarely fatal; most recover, though joint pain may last longer |
| Once infected, no need for prevention | Immunity develops, but prevention is still crucial for outbreaks |
| Mosquitoes bite only at night | Aedes mosquitoes bite during the day and early evening |
| Home remedies can cure it | No cure exists—supportive care and symptom relief are essential |
India has experienced fluctuating chikungunya incidents over the past few years, with the first ever outbreak in the 1970s (WHO). Here's the yearly average reported:
| Year | Confirm Cases |
|---|---|
| 2019 | 12,205 |
| 2020 | 6,324 |
| 2021 | 11,890 |
| 2022 | 8,067 |
| 2023 | 8,067 |
| 2024 | 17,930 |
| 2025 (Till 31st March) | 1,741 |
Note - These are confirmed cases. For a more detailed view, check the link above.
Chikungunya is a vector-borne disease which can be covered by health insurance. Chikungunya requires diagnostic tests and multiple treatments for symptoms. These diagnostic tests and treatments cost a lot. Along with the mental and health problems, stress, you do not want to burden yourself with financial stress. Your main goal is to get cured from this disease, which requires you to rest and relax. Health insurance will cover charges for diagnostic tests, treatments and hospitalisation charges if required (as per policy).
Healthcare insurance comes in handy in the battle against vector-borne diseases like dengue, chikungunya and malaria, relieving you from the financial stress and ensuring a healthy recovery. So, get insured today and make sure you have protection against vector-borne diseases in your policy. To get the best health insurance quotes, visit Coverfox.
Mosquitoes are a huge threat to the health of India. The prevalence of mosquito-related diseases is quite high in the country. States like Karnataka, Maharashtra and Gujarat face the heavy burden of these diseases. Make sure you try your best to prevent getting these vector-borne diseases, and if you do contract diseases like chikungunya, ensure you are insured with the best healthcare plans and get proper treatment in time. Stay healthy, stay insured.
Ans: In rare cases, it can be transmitted (like from mother to newborn child or blood transfusions).
Ans: If you have vector-borne disease protection covered in your health insurance policy, then yes.
Ans: Although rare, you can contract chikungunya twice.
Ans: Get diagnosed first; chikungunya can be easily misdiagnosed. If it is confirmed, take rest, relax and treat your symptoms.
Ans: Yes, the IXCHIQ and VIMKUNYA are vaccines that work against chikungunya.
Ans: No, it is rarely fatal.
Ans: Although rare, there have been such cases recorded.
Ans: Try to avoid going to such places, and if you have to, make sure you carry mosquito repellents, wear fully covered clothes and install mosquito nets where you are going to sleep.
