CIENCIASMEDICASNEWS: Chikungunya hits Mainland | Digital Press Kit

sábado, 26 de julio de 2014

Chikungunya hits Mainland | Digital Press Kit | CDC Online Newsroom

Spokespersons

Lyle R. Petersen, MD, MPH expanded

“Chikungunya has been on the U.S. public health radar for some time. CDC has been working with the Pan American Health Organization since 2006, preparing for its introduction. We are working with international public health partners and with state health departments to alert health care providers and the public about this disease, equip state health laboratories to test for it and to detect cases to help prevent further spread.”

Lyle R. Petersen, MD, MPH - Director, Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, NCEZID

Photo: Map of the U.S. showing the approximate distribution of Aedes aegypti in the united states.

Chikungunya Hits Mainland

The first locally acquired case of chikungunya, a mosquito-borne disease, was reported July 17 in Florida. This newly reported case represents the first time that mosquitoes in the continental United States are thought to have spread the virus to a non-traveler. Although CDC does not expect widespread cases of chikungunya in the United States this summer, American travelers infected overseas may continue to return and bring the virus with them.

Chikungunya virus is transmitted to people by two species of mosquitoes,Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus. Both species are found in the southeastern United States and limited parts of the Southwest; Aedes albopictus is also found further north up the East Coast, through the Mid-Atlantic States, and is also found in the lower Midwest.
People infected with chikungunya virus typically develop fever and joint pain. Other symptoms can include muscle aches, headaches, joint swelling or rash. This virus is not spread person to person. There is no vaccine and no specific treatment for infection.
The best way to protect yourself and your family from chikungunya is to prevent being bitten by mosquitoes by using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants, using air conditioning or window/door screens to keep mosquitoes outside, and reducing mosquito breeding ground such as standing water.

CDC is currently working with the Florida Department of Health to assess whether there are additional locally acquired cases and is providing consultation on ways to prevent further spread of the virus by controlling mosquitoes and educating people about personal and household protection measures to avoid mosquito bites. Learn more about Chikungunya in the United States.