Armenia reports first case of chikungunya fever

Armenia's health authorities recorded a case of chikungunya fever on Wednesday.

According to the National Center for Disease Control and Prevention, the patient contracted the virus after being bitten by a mosquito in the Seychelles. Officials say the patient’s condition is currently assessed as satisfactory.

Chikungunya is a viral disease transmitted to humans through the bite of infected mosquitoes. It is not spread from person to person. The incubation period typically ranges from two to 12 days.

Common symptoms include fever, severe joint pain, muscle aches, skin rash and general weakness. There is no specific antiviral treatment for chikungunya and while vaccines have been developed, they are not yet widely used.

Health officials say the mortality rate is low, estimated at around 0.1% of cases, primarily affecting elderly people and those with underlying health conditions. Pregnant women and individuals with chronic illnesses are considered to be at higher risk of complications.

Authorities urge travelers and residents to take preventive measures to reduce the risk of infection. These include using insect nets, wearing long-sleeved clothing and applying insect repellents or using anti-mosquito devices.

In recent weeks, outbreaks of chikungunya have been reported in the Seychelles, Sri Lanka, Suriname, Bolivia and Cuba.

Travelers returning from the areas who experience symptoms are advised to seek medical care and consult an infectious disease specialist.