Chikungunya virus infection in the tropical and subtropical countries

Chikungunya virus, a member of the family Togaviridae is a mosquito-borne virus. It is the causal agent of Chikungunya fever, a re-emerging zoonotic viral disease that possesses a serious threat to national and global health security. Since its first detection in Tanzania in1952, the virus has been detected over 60 countries across the world, although according to the historical records, CHIKV is likely to have been present since 1779. Aedes aegypti mosquitoes in tropical and subtropical regions are mainly responsible for its transmission, however, the potential exists for further spread because of genetic adaptation of the virus to Aedes albopictus, a species that thrives in temperate regions. The virus is a serious public health concern in the tropical and subtropical countries, particularly those, belong to the developing world, where enough diagnostic facility and control measures are not available. It is almost a self-limiting disease, but active surveillance, early detection, vector control and public awareness at a local, national and international level are crucial for the effective control of Chikungunya virus infection.