Chikungunya

Clear→ stable

Vector-borne

Current NYS Status

13 cases in 2024 (baseline: ~37). Low absolute count. All cases in NYS are travel-associated; no local mosquito transmission.

2024 statewide cases: 13

Source: NYSDOH Annual Communicable Disease Report 2024 + 5-yr baseline

What is it?

Chikungunya is caused by an alphavirus transmitted by Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes. The name means "to walk bent over" in the Makonde language, reflecting the debilitating joint pain it causes. NYS had 13 cases in 2024, all travel-associated. Cases have been reported from the Caribbean, Central and South America, Africa, Asia, and Europe.

How it spreads

Transmitted through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes, which bite primarily during the day. Not spread person-to-person.

Symptoms

Abrupt onset of high fever and severe, often incapacitating joint pain affecting multiple joints simultaneously. Headache, muscle pain, joint swelling, rash, and fatigue are common. Joint pain can persist for weeks, months, or occasionally years after the acute infection.

Who is at risk?

Travelers to the Caribbean, Central and South America, Africa, and Asia. Older adults and people with underlying joint conditions may experience more prolonged joint pain.

What you can do

🛡Use DEET-based repellent and wear protective clothing when traveling to endemic areas — Aedes mosquitoes bite during the day

🛡Stay in air-conditioned or well-screened accommodations when possible

⚕️For joint pain relief, use acetaminophen — avoid NSAIDs initially until dengue can be ruled out

Tier B — Annual report tracking

Based on NYSDOH annual communicable disease report. Threat level reflects 2024 case counts compared to the 5-year baseline.

Seasonality: variable

This information is for general public health awareness and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.