Community Corner

NH Has First Cases of Mosquito-borne Chikungunya Virus

NH's Public Health Director says the two cases are the first identified cases in the state, but probably will not be the last.

The New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services has announced two cases of the mosquito-borne virus known as "chikungunya" in people who traveled to the Caribbean. They are the first identified cases in the state.

There is no current concern of local transmission of this virus in New Hampshire because the mosquitoes that carry it have not been identified in the area, according to the state DHHS.

"While this is our first announcement of this virus, unfortunately it probably won't be the last," DHHS Public Health Director Dr. José Montero said in a press release. "This disease and the mosquitoes that carry it are spreading. We want to urge people who are traveling to areas where this virus now exists to take the same precautions when outdoors that they would here to prevent being bitten by mosquitoes, namely, wear an effective insect repellent, long sleeves, and pants. In some countries a bed net might be advisable if screens are not available."

The virus is spread by mosquitoes and found in many countries, though most recently in the Caribbean and Central and South America.

Information released July 8 by the NHDHHS:

  • The chikungunya virus was first identified in Tanzania in 1952.
  • Common symptoms include fever and joint pain. Other symptoms may include headache, muscle pain, joint swelling, and rash.
  • Outbreaks have occurred in countries in Africa, Asia, Europe and the Indian and Pacific oceans.
  • There is no vaccine against chikungunya and no specific treatment at this time.
  • The virus rarely results in death but the symptoms can sometimes be severe and debilitating.
  • The incubation period is generally two to seven days, but can be as long as two weeks.
Learn more about the chikungunya at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention FAQ page.




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