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Multiplexed Isothermal Amplification Based Diagnostic Platform to Detect Zika, Chikungunya, and Dengue 1
06:18

Multiplexed Isothermal Amplification Based Diagnostic Platform to Detect Zika, Chikungunya, and Dengue 1

Published on: March 13, 2018

Chikungunya virus infection

I-C Sam1, S AbuBakar

  • 1Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur.

The Medical Journal of Malaysia
|August 11, 2006
PubMed

Insights

Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) causes fever, rash, and joint pain. This mosquito-borne illness may be underdiagnosed in Malaysia due to its similarity to dengue, highlighting the need for better surveillance and vector control.

Area of Science:

  • Medical Entomology
  • Virology
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is a mosquito-borne alphavirus causing epidemic fever, rash, and polyarthralgia in Africa and Asia.
  • Two CHIKV outbreaks occurred in Malaysia (1998, 2006), but its historical presence and transmission dynamics remain unclear.
  • CHIKV shares vectors (Aedes aegypti, Ae. albopictus) and symptoms with dengue, leading to potential underdiagnosis and misdiagnosis.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the historical presence and potential circulation of Chikungunya virus in Malaysia.
  • To understand the epidemiological context of CHIKV outbreaks in Malaysia.
  • To inform public health strategies for CHIKV prevention and control.

Main Methods:

  • Review of historical seroprevalence data from the 1960s.
  • Analysis of reported CHIKV outbreaks in Malaysia.
  • Comparison of CHIKV and dengue transmission vectors and clinical presentations.

Main Results:

  • Seroprevalence studies from the 1960s suggest prior CHIKV activity in Malaysia.
  • CHIKV outbreaks in 1998 and 2006 were reported, but the virus's endemicity is uncertain.
  • Similarities with dengue complicate diagnosis, suggesting underreporting.

Conclusions:

  • CHIKV is a significant public health concern in Malaysia, potentially circulating for decades.
  • Enhanced surveillance, diagnostic capabilities, and vector control are crucial for managing CHIKV.
  • Public health awareness and consideration of CHIKV in differential diagnoses are essential.

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