JACKSON, Miss.–Chikungunya is in Mississippi. It may sound apocalyptic, but deaths from the mosquito-borne disease are rare. The Miss. Dept. of Health did confirm this week that a Mississippian who recently got back from Haiti does have the virus.
A news release from the department also said several other people may have the virus and they are checking it out to confirm those cases.
Here’s what you need to know about chikungunya and how to keep from getting it, from a Health Dept. news release:
A mosquito-borne illness traditionally found in Africa and Asia, chikungunya virus has recently appeared in the Caribbean, and could possibly infect Mississippians who travel there.
Symptoms of chikungunya infection include fever, muscle and joint pain, and swelling of the joints. Deaths from chikungunya virus are rare, but anyone with a compromised immune system is at higher risk of complications from the infection.
“Chikungunya virus is spread from person to person through the bite of the Aedes mosquito,” said MSDH State Epidemiologist Dr. Thomas Dobbs. “It’s very important for travelers to the Dominic Republic, Haiti, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands and other Caribbean nations to be especially careful and take proper precautions to protect themselves.”
The MSDH suggests the following precautions to protect yourself and your environment from chikungunya and other mosquito borne illnesses, including West Nile virus:
- Use a recommended mosquito repellent that contains DEET while you are outdoors.
- Remove all sources of standing water around your home and yard to prevent mosquito breeding.
- Wear loose, light-colored, long clothing to cover the arms and legs when outdoors.
- Avoid areas where mosquitoes are prevalent. Mosquitoes that carry chikungunya virus are especially active during the day.
- Travelers to the Caribbean should prevent mosquito exposures. Please see HealthyMS.com/chik
Individuals who think they might be infected with chikungunya virus should see their healthcare provider and stay indoors for at least 10 days to avoid mosquito bites, as native Mississippi mosquitoes could spread the virus to other people.
For more information on chikungunya or other mosquito-borne illnesses, visit the MSDH website at www.HealthyMS.com.
