The Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is an arthropod-borne virus (arbovirus) that belongs to the genus Alphavirus in the family Togaviridae. It causes an illness characterized by an abrupt onset of fever, severe joint pain, muscle pain, headache, nausea, fatigue, and rash. The name "chikungunya" is derived from a word in the Kimakonde language, meaning "to become contorted," referencing the stooped posture developed as a result of the severe joint pain.
