Chickpox fever outbreak in China sparks concerns for Primorye's safety?
In a recent development, cases of Chikungunya fever have been reported in China. This tropical viral infection, transmitted primarily by the Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes, can cause severe symptoms and long-lasting joint pain in infected individuals.
Chikungunya fever is an acute viral disease that spreads through the bites of these blood-sucking insects. The risk of contracting the virus is higher during warm, rainy seasons when mosquito populations increase. Pregnant women and those with weakened immune systems should be especially cautious.
As the virus does not thrive in the moderate climate of Russia, including Primorye, there have been no recorded imported cases over the past five years. However, experts remind travelers to take precautionary measures when visiting tropical countries, where the conditions for the spread of Chikungunya fever exist.
To prevent Chikungunya fever while traveling, it is crucial to avoid mosquito bites. This can be achieved by applying insect repellents containing DEET or other effective agents. Wearing protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts and long pants, especially during daytime, can also help.
Additionally, using mosquito nets and coils, staying in accommodations with window and door screens, and reducing mosquito breeding sites can significantly reduce the risk of infection. Travelers spending extended time in endemic areas may also consider vaccination if available and recommended. Vaccines like IXCHIQ and VIMKUNYA are now approved and advised for travelers to high-risk regions.
It's important to note that the vaccine availability varies worldwide. For instance, vaccines are approved in the U.S. and EU but not widely available in all countries like China. Seeking immediate medical advice if becoming unwell during or shortly after travel, especially with symptoms consistent with Chikungunya fever, is essential.
Sanitary and quarantine control remains in place at border crossing points in Russia to prevent the spread of the disease. The symptoms of Chikungunya fever include high fever, joint swelling, muscle pain, rash, fatigue, and headache. In some cases, joint pains from Chikungunya fever may persist for months in infected individuals.
By combining personal protective measures, environmental control, and vaccination where possible, travelers can greatly reduce their risk of contracting Chikungunya fever. Stay safe and enjoy your travels!
[1] World Health Organization. (2021). Chikungunya. [online] Available at: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/chikungunya
[2] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Chikungunya. [online] Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/chikungunya/
[3] European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control. (2021). Chikungunya. [online] Available at: https://www.ecdc.europa.eu/en/disease-chikungunya
[4] National Health Service. (2021). Chikungunya. [online] Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/chikungunya/
[5] World Health Organization. (2021). Chikungunya: Advice for international travel. [online] Available at: https://www.who.int/ith/diseases/chikungunya/en/
- While traveling to tropical countries, it's crucial to observe health-and-wellness practices, such as preventing mosquito bites to reduce the risk of contracting Chikungunya fever, a viral disease that can cause severe joint pain and other symptoms.
- Vaccines like IXCHIQ and VIMKUNYA are now approved and recommended for travelers to high-risk regions, but their availability varies worldwide, making mental-health considerations important when planning travel and assessing risks.
- In addition to focusing on fitness-and-exercise routines and maintaining a well-balanced, nutritious diet for overall health and wellbeing, travelers should also pay attention to medical-conditions, including Chikungunya fever, which can affect their journey and require immediate medical attention if symptoms arise.
