Chikungunya
Published on in Health Tip of the Week
Published on in Health Tip of the Week
A mosquito-borne illness once rarely seen in the United States has cropped up this summer, most recently in Florida this past July. Chikungunya, while not fatal, causes a fever and joint pain and can be very uncomfortable, especially for young children. This new reported case is unique because it is the first time mosquitos in the United States transmitted the disease. In previous cases, travelers have brought the virus back with them from overseas.
Here is what you need to know:
The two main symptoms of chikungunya are fever and joint pain. Other possible symptoms include:
Sometimes the symptoms of chikungunya can be extremely painful. If your child shows symptoms, contact your pediatrician. It is best to keep your child indoors during the illness to make sure he isn't bitten by a mosquito, which would transmit the disease to another person.
The best way to help your child through the illness is to make sure he receives plenty of fluids and rest. Your child’s pediatrician may recommend ibuprofen (Advil®) or acetaminophen (Tylenol®) for the pain and fever.
Contributed by: Patrick S. Pasquariello, MD
Categories: Weekly Health Tips, Mosquito-borne Illnesses