State confirms second case of tropical chikungunya virus

The tropical virus is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito and can cause sudden onset of fever and severe joint pain in the hands and feet.

The pain typically improves within a week, but it may last for months or years in some patients. In rare cases, patients have died.

Infected people can spread the virus to others through mosquito bites. Officials with the Alamance County Health Department said the person had symptoms when they returned from travel but no longer had the virus.

“After reviewing this case, we do not feel anyone in Alamance County is at risk because the time period in which mosquitos could have been infected was over,” Interim Health Director Stacie Saunders said. “Right now, we want those traveling to the Caribbean or other affected areas to be aware of the virus and to protect themselves against mosquito bites.”

The state reported its first ever case of infection on June 12, saying that person had also recently traveled to the Caribbean.