Puerto Rico is latest country to confirm arrival of chikungunya virus

Health authorities have confirmed the first case of chikungunya virus in the territory. The patient is a resident of San Juan, and investigations are underway to determine how this person became infected.

Chikungunya virus infections may have long lasting health consequences. Travellers to areas where chikungunya fever virus is active can reduce their risk of exposure to this virus by taking all necessary precautions to avoid mosquito bites. Many persons with chikungunya fever do not seek medical care and are not reported to health authorities. There may be many more cases in the community that are not reported.