The Modern State of Prevention and Treatment of Chikungunya Fever

Abstract

The Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is an alphavirus transmitted to people by Aedes mosquitoes, usually Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus. The virus causes Chikungunya fever, a disease characterized by fever, nausea, headaches, rash, and persistent arthral­gia. Chikungunya fever may be associated with severe complications, including death. Since 2005, CHIKV has spread worldwide, leading to epidemics in Africa, Indian Ocean islands, Asia, and, most recently, in the Americas. Globally expanding pandemics with CHIKV rheumatic disorders and post-infectious complications are exacerbating public health problems. There is no specific vac­cine or drug to treat this viral infection. Analysis of the search for effective drugs in relation to CHIKV showed that, despite the diversity of research areas, as well as the use of modern advances in molecular biology, there are no etiotropic treatments or medic­inal immunobiological preparations (MIBPs) approved for use in practical medicine. However, new strategies for antiviral research are encouraging (inspire optimism?). Combined chemotherapy with interferons and antiviral agents is an appealing ther­apeutic strategy for providing increased antiviral activity and reducing drug concentrations.