The Chikungunya virus typically manifests 3 to 7 days after a mosquito bite, with symptoms including fever above 39°C, joint pain and swelling, a maculopapular rash, fatigue, and muscle aches. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that 40% to 50% of those infected experience prolonged joint pain lasting weeks or even months. In severe cases, complications such as myocarditis and encephalitis can occur.
While Chikungunya is endemic in many regions, this year has seen outbreaks in numerous countries and territories worldwide. Although Vietnam has not reported any Chikungunya cases, serological studies indicate its presence within the community.
Dr. Le Xuan Luat from the Department of General Internal Medicine at Tam Anh General Hospital in Hanoi explains that both dengue fever and Chikungunya are transmitted by the Aedes mosquito. While a dengue fever vaccine exists, there is currently no vaccine for Chikungunya. Dr. Luat advises Vietnamese travelers to be aware of the risks and take preventive measures.
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Dr. Luat examines a 25-year-old male with a mosquito-borne infectious disease. Photo illustration: Tam Anh General Hospital.
Before your trip:
Research the epidemiological situation of your destination using resources like the WHO. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC)'s arbovirus disease surveillance map, updated in July, shows Chikungunya outbreaks in several Asian countries: India, Thailand, Indonesia, Maldives, and China. Outbreaks are also present in African countries including Tanzania, Kenya, and Ethiopia; in the Americas: Brazil, Paraguay, Haiti, and the Dominican Republic; and in the Caribbean: Puerto Rico and Jamaica. Vietnamese travelers to these regions should be particularly cautious about mosquito bites, especially during the rainy season.
Pack mosquito repellent creams or sprays containing DEET (20% to 30%), Picaridin, or IR3535, as well as light-colored, long-sleeved clothing. Consult vaccination centers or travel clinics for advice on preventing other infectious diseases.
During your trip:
Regularly apply mosquito repellent to exposed skin.
Wear lightweight, light-colored long-sleeved shirts and pants to minimize attracting mosquitoes.
Sleep in air-conditioned rooms or under mosquito nets. Ensure windows and doors are closed and screens are installed. Avoid hotels in mosquito-prone areas, such as those with stagnant water, outdoor toilets, or proximity to wet markets.
Maintain personal and environmental hygiene by removing stagnant water and garbage around your accommodation to limit mosquito breeding grounds.
After your trip:
The Ministry of Health advises individuals returning from countries or regions with Chikungunya outbreaks to monitor their health for 12 days. If symptoms like fever or muscle and joint pain appear, seek medical attention immediately. Report your travel history to facilitate testing and timely treatment.
"Don't just focus on mosquito protection at your destination; remain vigilant during travel and outdoor excursions", Dr. Luat emphasizes. If symptoms develop, avoid self-medicating with pain relievers or fever reducers containing aspirin or NSAIDs before ruling out dengue fever or Chikungunya, as these can increase the risk of bleeding and other serious complications.
Thanh Ba
