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RESURGENCE OF CHIKUNGUNYA IN THAILAND
Abstract
Background
Chikungunya is a re-emerging infectious disease in Thailand.
Aims
We conducted this study to describe the epidemiological data of chikungunya infection in Thailand.
Methods
Analysis of the data of chikungunya patients reported to Center of Epidemiological Information, Bureau of Epidemiology, Ministry of Public Health, Thailand from January 2008 to December 2019 was done. Diagnosis of chikungunya fever adhered to clinical and laboratory criteria.
Results
From October 2008 onward, chikungunya cases were again reported in Thailand. The disease is more common in rainy season with all age groups affected. The strain in the current outbreak is African strain which is different from Asian strain in the past. The sudden onset of very high fever along with rash, and severe arthralgia especially in the small joints of hands and toes are characteristics of the disease. There was no mortality, however the high morbidity with severe arthralgia persisted for several months made the patient mentally and physically weak.
Conclusions
The implementation of effectively sustainable vector control is a key to success for prevention and control of this disease.