The illness usually lasts three to 10 days, and goes away on its own. But the joint pains can last weeks or even months.

No cure is available. Patients are usually given medication to quell the fever and pain.

The disease kills only rarely.

Singaporeans can help prevent the mosquito from breeding by covering unused bamboo pole holders, turning over water storage containers, and changing the water in vases and bowls every other day, among other things.

Anyone who believes himself to be infected should see a doctor.

To stop the spread of the disease, chikungunya patients should protect themselves by using mosquito repellent and sleeping under a mosquito net.