Reports from the Republic of the Congo (computer translated) show that the chikungunya epidemic that began Jan. 7 has grown to 8,000 cases.
The outbreak has affected eight departments ( Kouilou, Bouenza, Pointe Noire, Plateaux, Pool and Brazaville, Niari, Lékoumu).
Officials from the National Public Health Laboratory reveal that the disease has already being seen in half the country.
Entomological investigation showed the presence of the vector, Aedes albopictus.
Chikungunya is a viral disease transmitted to humans by infected mosquitoes. It causes fever and severe joint pain, which is often debilitating. Other symptoms include muscle pain, headache, nausea, fatigue, and rash.
The disease shares some clinical signs with dengue and Zika, and can be misdiagnosed in areas where they are common. As there is no cure, treatment is focused on relieving the symptoms.
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