Disease caused by a virus that is transmitted through a mosquito bite. It happens in warm climates near stagnant water, where mosquitoes reproduce. Mainly in Africa and Asia.
It manifests as a high fever for 3 to 5 days, followed by red spots on the skin and very severe and disabling pain in the distal joints (hands, wrists and ankles). It develops in intermittent outbreaks over several months.
Diagnosis is clinical through questioning and a physical examination and it is confirmed in a laboratory through a blood culture.
There is no specific treatment nor vaccine, only relief of the pain and fever. The best way to prevent it by is managing mosquito plagues and its bite.
You should generally check with your doctor if the symptoms persist, as it is not a medical emergency.
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