Two of Joy's relaives who live in nearby Bulacan caught it: Originally they thought it was Dengue but the test was negative. The symptoms are similar (everything hurts) but now they are still having pain in large joints.
From Grok:
Chikungunya in the Philippines (as of late 2025)Chikungunya is a mosquito-borne viral disease caused by the chikungunya virus (CHIKV), transmitted primarily by Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes—the same vectors that spread dengue and Zika.
It is endemic in the Philippines, with cases often peaking during the rainy season (June–September) due to increased mosquito breeding.
Current Situation (2025)According to the World Health Organization (WHO) Disease Outbreak News update, as of August 16, 2025, the Philippines reported 628 confirmed chikungunya cases — a 78% decrease compared to the same period in 2024 (2,886 cases). This indicates a significant decline in transmission this year, with effective public health responses (e.g., case investigation, vector control, and community engagement) containing small clusters quickly. No deaths were reported in association with these cases.
Chikungunya cases are generally low in number compared to dengue (which saw over 123,000 cases and hundreds of deaths in the first half of 2025). The virus circulates sporadically, with occasional localized outbreaks, but no nationwide epidemic in recent years.
The Philippines remains at elevated risk for chikungunya, as noted by the U.S. CDC, even without active large outbreaks. Travelers and residents should take precautions.
Symptoms and Treatment
Symptoms typically appear 4–7 days after infection and include:High fever Severe joint pain (often debilitating and long-lasting) Muscle pain Headache Fatigue Nausea Rash The disease is usually self-limiting, with most recovering fully, though joint pain can persist for months.
that is what they are complaining about now that they are over their acute phase.
There is no specific antiviral treatment; management focuses on symptom relief (painkillers, rest, hydration). Vaccines are approved in some countries but not widely available or used in the Philippines.
PreventionThe Philippine Department of Health (DOH) promotes the 4S strategy (enhanced for dengue, chikungunya, and Zika):Search and destroy mosquito breeding sites (e.g., empty water containers, tires). Self-protection (use repellents, wear long sleeves/pants). Seek early medical consultation if symptoms appear. Support fogging in high-risk areas. Additional tips: Eliminate standing water around homes, use bed nets, and avoid outdoor activities during peak mosquito hours (dawn and dusk).If you're in the Philippines or planning to travel there, stay vigilant—especially in urban or rural areas with poor drainage during rainy periods. For the latest official updates, check the DOH or WHO websites.
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