2013–2014 chikungunya outbreak

2013–2014 Chikungunya Outbreak
Electron micrograph of the Chikungunya virus
Disease	Chikungunya
Location	Caribbean, South America, North America
Date	2013–2014
Deaths	191

The 2013–2014 Chikungunya outbreak was a significant epidemic of the Chikungunya virus that primarily affected the Caribbean and subsequently spread to parts of South America and North America. This outbreak marked the first time that local transmission of the virus was documented in the Americas.

Background

Chikungunya is a viral disease transmitted to humans by infected mosquitoes, primarily the Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus species. The disease is characterized by an abrupt onset of fever frequently accompanied by joint pain. Other symptoms may include muscle pain, headache, nausea, fatigue, and rash. The name "chikungunya" derives from a word in the Makonde language, meaning "to become contorted," reflecting the stooped appearance of sufferers with joint pain.

Outbreak Timeline

The outbreak began in December 2013, when the first cases were reported on the island of Saint Martin. The virus quickly spread to other Caribbean islands, including Guadeloupe, Martinique, and Saint Barthélemy. By mid-2014, the virus had spread to South America, with significant numbers of cases reported in Venezuela, Colombia, and Brazil.

In the United States, local transmission was reported in Florida, marking the first time chikungunya was locally acquired in the continental U.S. The outbreak highlighted the potential for chikungunya to spread in regions where the Aedes mosquitoes are present.

Impact

The outbreak resulted in over 1 million suspected cases and 191 deaths. The rapid spread of the virus was facilitated by the widespread presence of the Aedes mosquitoes in the affected regions and the lack of immunity in the local populations.

The economic impact was significant, with healthcare systems strained by the sudden influx of patients and the loss of productivity due to illness. The tourism industry in the Caribbean also suffered as travelers were deterred by the outbreak.

Response

Public health responses included efforts to control mosquito populations through insecticide spraying and the elimination of standing water where mosquitoes breed. Public awareness campaigns were launched to educate people on how to protect themselves from mosquito bites.

Prevention and Control

There is no specific antiviral treatment for chikungunya, and care is primarily supportive, focusing on relieving symptoms. Preventive measures include using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants, and using mosquito nets.

Also see

• Dengue fever
• Zika virus outbreak
• Mosquito-borne diseases
• Public health