During the first few weeks of 2019, Thailand experienced a sustained increase in chikungunya infection rate in the southern part of the country. According to Thai health officials, the outbreak was a continuation from 2018. More than 700 cases have been reported for this year mainly from the provinces of Songkhla, Pattani and Phuket.
Chikungunya is an infection caused by Chikungunya virus that is transmitted by Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitos. The chikungunya virus is passed to humans when a bite from an infected mosquito breaks the skin and introduces the virus into the body. In other words, the virus spreads from an already infected human to a mosquito, and then to another human. These mosquitoes feed mainly during daytime and can be found both indoors and outdoors. The mosquitos can also potentially transmit dengue and Zika virus.
The chikungunya disease was first described in southern Tanzania in 1952 where the name ‘Chikungunya,’ derived from the Makonde language that means ‘to become contorted,’ was used to describe the clinical appearances of patients who suffer terrible joint pains.
The disease mainly affects people living in Africa, Asia and the Indian subcontinent where outbreaks occur from time to time. Malaysia and Thailand are no exception.
SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
Not all infected individuals will exhibit signs and symptoms of the disease. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 3% to 28% of people remain asymptomatic. On the other hand, patients who develop symptoms of the disease will first undergo a period of incubation that typically lasts three to seven days.
Two symptoms characterize the disease: the sudden onset of high fever, where the temperature ranges above 39ºC, and joint pains. Typically, fevers will last for several days (up to one week). Some patients may experience what is called a ‘biphasic fever’ where the initial temperature surge lasts for several days, subsidies, and then spikes for the second time.
This story is from the March 2019 edition of Health Today Malaysia.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the March 2019 edition of Health Today Malaysia.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
When Depression Strikes Teenagers
It can be difficult to imagine that those in the carefree days of youth can be hit by such a somber illness. However, the numbers don’t lie: a significant number of young people suffer from depression and this figure is on the rise. Our contributing psychiatrist reveals the facts about teenage depression and how to spot the signs.
5 Things You Should Know About Probiotics
If you haven’t heard of probiotics or have been wondering what they are, here are some basics on the topic to get you started.
Internet Safety For Children
There’s nothing more comforting than to have your chicks safely back in the roost as they unwind on their gadgets in the solace of their rooms. But are they truly alone in their rooms and are they truly safe? Online gadgets are windows to another world, and no one is looking out for your child there. So how do we shield them from the unwarranted possibilities that lie in that realm?
A Cuppa Joe, Anyone?
Coffee, one of the most widely consumed drinks in the world, is derived from the beans of Coffea canephora (best known as robusta) and C. arabica. Coffee is unique in terms of its perceived and actual effects on the body and is also loved for its distinct aroma and taste. Our general perception about coffee is that it can keep us awake. However, its benefits go beyond the “wake-me-up” action and it can be categorized as a health drink.
Emilia Clarke - Conquers Real-life Adversities
Her on-screen character, Daenerys Targaryen from Game of Thrones was meant to be a blend of Napoleon, Joan of Arc and Lawrence of Arabia—courageous heroes of the past. But when illness struck actress Emilia Clarke, she had to channel some of that strength and bravery into her real-life situation.
The Fertility Revolution
A pioneer in Malaysia's fertility treatment offers his insight on two revolutionaryadvances that made a big difference in bringing hope to many couples who are unable to conceive naturally.
6 Skin Myths Debunked
A pimple has erupted on your nose (oh, horrors). Family members and friends are quick to give you well-meaning advice, while the internet abounds with ‘effective’ tips and solutions. But how do you know if any of that information is true?
Addiction: What You Don't Know
Addictive behaviours have been described as one of the greatest scourages of humankind. In order to treat it, we have to first understand what courses it.
Hello, Hunky Hemsworth!
With the third Thor movie, Thor: Ragnarok set to open in just a few weeks, we turn our attention to the big, blond, easy-on-the eyes star – Chris Hemsworth.
Battling Two Cancers
Being diagnosed with liver cancer was bad enough, but as he was fighting for recovery, Mohd Salleh Yusof was struck by lung cancer as well. Determined to enjoy life to the fullest, Salleh shares his experience with HealthToday.
