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Published on: March 13, 2018
Chikungunya virus-associated death in Malaysia
I C Sam1, A Kamarulzaman, G S Y Ong
1Tropical Infectious Diseases Research and Education Centre, Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia. jicsam@um.edu.my
Tropical Biomedicine
|October 22, 2010
Summary
Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) can cause severe, life-threatening complications, including death, especially during widespread outbreaks. This case highlights atypical presentations of CHIKV infection in Malaysia.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is a mosquito-borne alphavirus typically causing fever, rash, and arthralgia.
- Historically, severe complications and fatalities from CHIKV were rare.
- Recent global outbreaks have seen an increase in severe CHIKV cases.
Observation:
- Malaysia is experiencing a significant CHIKV outbreak, affecting over 10,000 individuals since April 2008.
- A culture-confirmed case of CHIKV-associated death is reported.
- The deceased patient presented with fever, rash, acute heart failure exacerbation, rhabdomyolysis, and multiple organ failure.
Findings:
- CHIKV infection can lead to severe, atypical presentations.
- Fatal outcomes from CHIKV are possible, particularly in patients with pre-existing conditions.
- The case underscores the potential for severe CHIKV disease beyond typical symptoms.
Implications:
- Healthcare providers should be vigilant for severe CHIKV manifestations.
- Public health strategies may need to adapt to address severe CHIKV cases during outbreaks.
- Further research into risk factors for severe CHIKV disease is warranted.
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