Re-emerging chikungunya fever: some lessons from Asia

Chikungunya is an arboviral infection that re-emerged in several Asian countries during 2005-2006 after a long period of quiescence. Several microbial, climatic, social and economic factors influenced the occurrence of this disease as well as the rapidity with which it swept across many countries resulting in significant morbidity. Prevention and control of such diseases require not only a strong public health infrastructure but also a precise understanding of the factors that provide a conducive environment for the virus to propagate and infect a large number of people in a short time period. A multipronged response with an active role by the communities is critical for combating chikungunya and other emerging infectious diseases. The paper discusses important lessons that can be learned from the recent outbreaks of chikungunya fever in Asia.