Risks of chikungunya
Learn what the risks of chikungunya are and who is most at risk.
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What are the risks of getting chikungunya?
You are at risk when visiting areas:
- where chikungunya occurs
- affected by a chikungunya outbreak
Chikungunya occurs in parts of:
- Asia
- Africa
- Mexico
- the Caribbean
- South America
- Central America
- the Pacific Islands
- the Southeastern U.S.
The World Health Organization has a map showing where chikungunya can be found.
The risk of getting bit by infected mosquitoes is higher during the daytime, particularly just after sunrise and before sunset.
However, mosquitoes infected with chikungunya bite even:
- in shady areas
- when it is overcast
- if you are indoors
Complications from chikungunya are rare and may involve issues with the:
- eyes
- heart
- stomach
- intestines
- nervous system (related to the brain, spinal cord and nerves)
Complications are more common in:
- infants
- older adults
- people with long-term medical conditions, such as diabetes and hypertension