What is the cause of Chikungunya? What are its preventive measures and treatment? Give a comparative note on symptomology of Chikungunya and Dengue?
In short
Chikungunya is caused by an alphavirus spread by Aedes mosquitoes, prevented by removing breeding sites and using nets and repellents, and treated only supportively with analgesics, fluids and rest. Unlike dengue, it causes severe, long-lasting joint pain, while dengue brings marked platelet fall and risk of haemorrhage and shock.
Model answer
Ghissu Editorial · Verified 4 Oct 2026 · 248 words
Viral Transmission
Chikungunya virus, an alphavirus, is transmitted by Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes breeding in stagnant water during monsoon seasons in Andhra Pradesh. These vectors are also responsible for Dengue, leading to overlapping outbreaks.
Vector Control and Personal Protection
Eliminating breeding sites, using mosquito nets and repellents, and community awareness campaigns are emphasized in Andhra Pradesh to reduce transmission. Public health drives promote wearing long-sleeved clothing and insecticide-treated nets during peak seasons.
Complications and Diagnosis
Dengue risks hemorrhagic fever and thrombocytopenia, rare in Chikungunya; overlapping symptoms necessitate laboratory confirmation, challenging in resource-limited Andhra Pradesh. Early differentiation is vital for appropriate treatment.
Surveillance and Healthcare Strengthening
Enhanced vector surveillance and improved diagnostic capacity under Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) are critical. Community engagement and addressing insecticide resistance will improve control.
Integrated Public Health Approach
Coordinated efforts involving urban planning, sanitation, and health education can reduce mosquito breeding and disease burden in vulnerable regions of Andhra Pradesh.
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