HARRIS COUNTY, Texas – Harris County Public Health & Environmental Services (HCPHES) confirms the first case of Chikungunya in Harris County resident with recent international travel.
"Many of our residents travel abroad for pleasure and business, so we're not surprised to learn that someone from our area has been infected with Chikungunya. Prevention remains key," said Dr. Shah.
Preventive measure include using mosquito repellents, covering exposed arms and legs, making sure to empty containers with standing water, etc.
People who have travelled abroad and have developed a fever, joint pains or a rash within two weeks of their trip should see their health care provider and report their recent travel.
People become infected with Chikungunya through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes, which bite during the day. Chikungunya is not spread from person-to-person contact.
Symptoms include fever, joint pain, muscle aches, headaches and rashes but it is usually not fatal. Officials say the sickness lasts about a week. In some cases, people can develop long-term joint pain.
For more information, contact 713.439.6293 or 713.439.6193 or visit the website.