Chikungunya, a mosquito-borne disease, caused nearly $50 billion in economic costs worldwide between 2011 and 2020, researchers report.
Erin Blakemore reports for The Washington Post.
In short:
- Between 2011 and 2020, chikungunya infected 18.7 million people across 110 countries, leading to $50 billion in global costs.
- Latin America and the Caribbean faced the highest financial burdens due to widespread infections and rapid transmission.
- Chronic illness among survivors contributed to the majority of costs, affecting 7.9 million people during the decade.
Key quote:
“Especially considering its potential to cause explosive outbreaks and considerable long-term health consequences, it is crucial to have a thorough understanding of this disease.”
— Researchers in BMJ Global Health
Why this matters:
Chikungunya is often underreported and misdiagnosed, complicating efforts to control it. Its chronic symptoms strain healthcare systems and economies, particularly in vulnerable regions. Improving data collection and mosquito control measures is key to mitigating future outbreaks.
