An insight into the history & epidemiology of Chikungunya fever in India

Abstract

Chikungunya fever, induced by the Chikungunya virus, is an arboviral disease transmitted by mosquitoes. The vectors, Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus, are widespread across all continents except Antarctica. This arbovirus infection predominantly manifests in tropical, subtropical and temperate biogeographic zones. The primary vectors, female Aedes mosquitoes, are diurnal feeders and oviposit in stagnant water environments. The Chikungunya virus was first identified in Tanzania in 1952 and subsequently isolated in Thailand in 1958. Significant outbreaks have been recorded in India, with notable incidences in Calcutta (1963) and Hyderabad (2005), impacting millions in multiple regions. In recent years, the incidence of suspected cases has varied, with the highest prevalence observed in the states of Gujarat, Maharashtra and Karnataka.