What is the treatment for Chikungunya?

Specific antiviral drugs or vaccine for treatment of chikungunya fever are not available. Hence early diagnosis and proper treatment are important for control of infection. People with chikungunya fever are treated symptomatically.

• Fever: Acetaminophen or ibuprofen are used to relieve fever. If you are in a hot environment, drink plenty of fluid to prevent dehydration.
• Pain in muscles and joints: Ibuprofen, naproxen, acetaminophen may be prescribed to relieve pain. Avoid aspirin especially in children.
• Take adequate rest.
• At home patient should use bed-nets, preferably permethrin-impregnated nets while resting and other measures such as use of insecticide sprays should be considered to avoid further mosquito exposure (this is done so that they do not contribute to the transmission cycle).

The infection is rarely life-threatening but it can cause substantial morbidity. Some patients can have a prolonged convalescence period (up to a year or more) and persistent joint pain. They may need analgesic (pain medication) and other long-term anti-inflammatory medications for treating chikungunya.

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