Aedes mosquitoes transmit chikungunya virus to people. These types of mosquitoes are found throughout much of the world. Chikungunya virus is transmitted to people through mosquito bites. Mosquitoes become infected when they feed on a person already infected with the virus.

Does chikungunya spread by touch?

Like most mosquito-borne infections, the virus can only be transmitted by blood-to-blood contact, through a mosquito bite or transfusion with infected blood. There is no risk of contracting Chikungunya from an infected patient by touching or caring for them.

How quickly does chikungunya spread?

Most people infected with chikungunya virus will develop some symptoms. Symptoms usually begin 3–7 days after an infected mosquito bites you.