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Challenges in Surveillance for Chikungunya Virus (CHIKV) Infection

Description

CHIKV is transmitted by mosquitoes and often occurs in large outbreaks with high attack rates. Common symptoms (which can be severe and disabling) include fever, joint pain/swelling, headache, muscle pain and rash. In December 2013, the World Health Organization reported local CHIKV transmission in the Caribbean. In July 2014, the first locally-acquired case in the continental U.S. (Florida) and increasing cases in Puerto Rico (PR) were reported. Due to the growing outbreak, VA Office of Public Health began conducting ongoing surveillance.

Objective

We describe challenges and lessons learned conducting surveillance for Chikungunya virus (CHIKV), an emerging infectious disease in the Americas.

Submitted by Magou on