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CHIKUNGUNYA OUTBREAK IN THE CARIBBEAN 2013-2014
Background:
In December 2013, the local transmission of the mosquito-borne chikungunya virus was confirmed for the first time in several Caribbean islands.
Objective:
To outline what is known to date on the outbreak of chikungunya in the Caribbean, and identify what is being done to detect and limit this infection.
Results:
PAHO/WHO has recommended that chikungunya surveillance be set up in countries where there is existing dengue surveillance. Prospective travellers should be advised to take personal protective measures to avoid mosquito bites to decrease risk of exposure. Patients typically present with fever and arthralgia. If there is a positive travel history, serology for both chikungunya and dengue virus infection should be considered after consultation with local public health officials. Treatment is supportive. Transmission in Canada is not expected.
Conclusion:
Clinicians and public health professionals in Canada should be on the alert for sporadic cases of chikungunya virus in patients who present with fever and arthralgias after a stay in an affected Caribbean island.
