WHO Warns of Global Chikungunya Virus Outbreak Amid Rising Indian Ocean Cases
The latest outbreaks are linked to the Indian Ocean region but are now spreading into Europe and other continents, raising alarms about the global threat posed by this mosquito-borne virus.
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Chikungunya Virus Spreading Beyond Endemic Zones
According to WHO, new chikungunya virus outbreaks are no longer confined to tropical or subtropical areas. Recent cases in parts of Europe reflect the changing behavior of the virus, driven by climate change and international travel.
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What Is Chikungunya Virus?
The chikungunya virus is transmitted by infected Aedes mosquitoes and causes symptoms like high fever, severe joint pain, rash, and fatigue. While rarely fatal, the virus can cause long-term complications, especially for older adults.
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WHO Calls for Urgent Measures
In its call to action, WHO is asking countries to:
Strengthen mosquito control efforts
Improve public awareness campaigns
Enhance early detection and surveillance
Prepare health systems for possible outbreaks
Failure to act now could result in a chikungunya virus outbreak on a global scale, similar to what occurred in the mid-2000s.
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