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Thailand and Malaysia report Chikungunya (CHIK) fever
Monday, 18 May, 2009
Chikungunya fever is caused by a virus carried by mosquitoes. The mode of transmission is the same as that for dengue fever and the symptoms of the illness are similar except that CHIK fever seldom develops the more serious haemorrhagic state that can occur occasionally with dengue fever. Distinguishing between the two requires blood testing but symptomatic treatment for both infections is the same involving adequate fluid intake and painkillers. Paracetamol is preferred to aspirin or non-steroidal anti-inflammtories like ibubrofen which could aggravate any tendency to bleeding
Currently there are reports of CHIK fever in southern Thailand including Phuket as well as in Malaysia both in peninsular Malaysia and Sarawak. Since there is no vaccine and no specific antiviral treatment personal anti-mosquito measures are essential for tourists during the day as well as evenings.
