**3. Conclusion**

Once a local disease, CHIKV has spread to the majority of countries worldwide. Since its discovery in Tanzania in 1952, it has afflicted millions of people throughout tropical and sub-tropical regions. Individuals infected develop CHIKF characterized by severe polyarthralgia, headache, maculopapular rash, myalgia, and nausea/ vomiting.

The first viremic wave took place between 1960 and 1980, affecting various regions in Africa and Southeast Asia. Evolution of the vector-borne RNA virus around 2005, lead to its dissemination into naïve areas such as America and Europe. Global expansion was also influenced by acquisition of a second competent vector *A. albopictus*, and travel of human carriers between affected and non-affected regions. As seen with the outbreaks in Europe, even temperate regions may experience severe outbreaks in the future.

CHIKV has become a global public health challenge. There are no current licensed vaccines and treatment strategies aim to relief symptoms. Therefore, reemergence and spread to new places encourages further evaluation of the pathogenesis of this disease, in order to develop new preventive, diagnostic, and therapeutic options. For the time being, CHIKV outbreaks continue to be a threat and preparedness for the prevention and control of chikungunya outbreaks is key.
