2013 2014 chikungunya outbreak

2013–2014 Chikungunya Outbreak
Structure of the Chikungunya virus
Disease	Chikungunya
Location	Caribbean, South America, North America
Date	2013–2014
Confirmed cases	Over 1 million
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 the virus was locally transmitted in the Americas, leading to widespread concern and public health responses.

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

Initial Detection

The outbreak began in December 2013, when the first cases of locally transmitted chikungunya were reported on the island of Saint Martin. Prior to this, chikungunya had not been reported in the Americas, although imported cases had been documented.

Spread Across the Caribbean

Following the initial cases in Saint Martin, the virus rapidly spread to other Caribbean islands, including Guadeloupe, Martinique, and Saint Barthélemy. By mid-2014, nearly all Caribbean nations had reported cases of chikungunya.

Expansion to the Americas

The virus soon spread to mainland South America, with significant outbreaks occurring in countries such as Venezuela, Colombia, and Brazil. In the United States, local transmission was reported in Florida, although the number of cases remained relatively low compared to the Caribbean and South America.

Impact

The outbreak had a substantial impact on public health systems in the affected regions. Over 1 million suspected cases were reported, with 191 confirmed deaths attributed to the virus. The economic impact was also significant, as the outbreak affected tourism and healthcare costs in the Caribbean.

Response

Public health responses included efforts to control mosquito populations, public education campaigns to reduce mosquito breeding sites, and advisories for travelers. The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provided guidance and support to affected countries.

Prevention and Control

Preventive measures focused on reducing mosquito exposure, including the use of insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants, and using mosquito nets. Efforts to control mosquito populations included insecticide spraying and eliminating standing water where mosquitoes breed.

Also see

• Chikungunya
• Aedes aegypti
• Aedes albopictus
• 2014 dengue outbreak
• Zika virus outbreak