The chikungunya virus was discovered in Tanzania, Africa, more than 60 years ago. Until recently, this virus was found primarily in Africa, Asia, Europe and the Indian and Pacific Oceans. But late last year, cases began popping up in the Caribbean, and about 135,000 people have been suspected or confirmed infected in the Western Hemisphere — mostly in the Caribbean.

However, with many Americans vacationing in the Caribbean islands, cases are now being reported in the U.S. and at what some experts consider an alarming rate. From 2006 to 2013, the largest number of cases of the chikungunya virus in the U.S. in a single year was just 65. By July 15 of this year, there were already 357 reported cases, including 121 in Puerto Rico.

The chikungunya virus is an arthropod-borne virus transmitted to humans by the Aedes mosquito — mainly the aegypti and albopictus species. Additionally, the chikungunya virus doesn't need a reservoir — it can be spread directly from one human host to another. In other words, infection of the chikungunya virus occurs when a person gets bitten by a mosquito that has previously fed on another infected individual.

The most common symptoms are the abrupt onset of fever and extreme (some described as excruciating) joint pain. There is no cure, and supportive treatment to relieve the symptoms is the course of action. The disease is rarely fatal, but even after the fever subsides, the joint pain can persist for weeks or even months in some individuals.

In June, U.S. health officials warned an outbreak of the virus was possible in the U.S. At the time, the focus was primarily in the southern states, where the mosquito species are in abundance. Since then, the disease has not been confined just to the South.

Recently, Florida health officials have reported 82 cases. The first case in Texas was discovered earlier this month. Within the last week alone, three confirmed cases were found in Long Island, included in the 20 cases reported overall by New York health officials. Another 10 cases have been reported in North Carolina, and cases have also been reported in Tennessee, Georgia, Rhode Island and Minnesota.

Taking basic precautions can minimize the risk of infection, especially when traveling to higher-risk areas. These include:

  • the use of repellents that contain DEET or similar chemicals
  • wearing long sleeves and pants
  • ensuring rooms are fitted with screens
  • remaining indoors on hot days,
  • eliminating standing water