Causes of chikungunya

Learn about the cause of chikungunya, how it is spread and where it is found.

On this page

What causes chikungunya?

The disease is caused by the chikungunya virus.

How is chikungunya spread?

The disease is spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito.

Mosquitoes that carry the virus can be found in:

  • Europe
  • Asia
  • Africa
  • Mexico
  • the Caribbean
  • South America
  • Central America
  • the Pacific Islands
  • the Southeastern U.S.

Mosquitoes that carry the chikungunya virus bite throughout the day, but are more active around sunrise and sunset. These mosquitoes can be found both indoors and outdoors.

Page details

Date modified: