Chikungunya Virus: Unveiling Its Global Impact (2002-2024)

Chikungunya virus (CHIKV), an arbovirus transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, has caused massive global epidemics, where it causes periodic outbreaks of febrile illness. In recent years, it has afflicted populations of Africa, South America, and Southeast Asia. Aedes albopictus and Aedes aegypti mosquitoes are the carriers of the virus causing severe clinical manifestations with multiorgan involvement which can last for years and have a significant negative impact on the health, quality of life, and ability to work and are the hallmarks of chikungunya fever. The effects of climate change as well as increased globalization of trade and travel have led to growth of the habitat of Aedes mosquitoes. As a result, increasing numbers of people will be at risk of chikungunya fever in the coming years. In the absence of specific antiviral treatments and with vaccines still in development, surveillance and vector control are essential to suppress re-emergence and epidemics. This review discusses the role of oxidative stress and inflammation in pathogenesis, therapeutic potential of antioxidants, preventive methods like vector control, public health education, and molecular techniques for early detection. A holistic review of literature from 2002 to 2024 was carried out using the Web of Science database to observe disease prevention and diagnostic advancements, particularly in vaccine research highlighting the continuous global public health initiatives aimed at reducing the virus's effects. To prevent epidemics from resurfacing, however, constant monitoring and vector control are necessary.