Chikungunya: Researchers find potential antiviral as disease spreads globally

Chikungunya virus is a mosquito-borne viral infection.

It should be noted that no vaccine has yet been approved to combat the Chikungunya virus. It was reported that by the end of 2027, the compound could undergo its first human test as a result of the new research.

the kind of mosquitoPeople whose bites spread the virus live in warmer climates. The Chikungunya virus was first identified in Africa in 1952, but can now also be found in Asia, the Indian subcontinent, the Americas, and Europe. Climate change could expand its geographic range.

Chikungunya symptoms

An initial fight with Chikungunya can cause fever, joint and muscle pain, a rash, and other symptoms for a week or two. Young children, older adults, and people with high blood pressure or diabetes are at higher risk of serious illness or death.

While most people make a full recovery, about 30 to 40 percent will experience persistent joint pain, known as chronic chikungunya arthritis, for months or even years. The resulting pain can be so disabling that some are unable to work.

chikungunya drug

The experimental Chikungunya antiviral compound is designed to reduce the total amount of virus, or viral load. Described as a small molecule inhibitor of 2-pyrimidone, the patent-pending compound works by binding to viral RNA polymerase through which viruses normally replicate.

According to the researchers, the drug targets a unique site on the viral RNA polymerase and has not been used before to treat humans.

The research team is working to modify the chemistry of the antiviral compound into a pill that can be taken orally. The team plans to test the effectiveness and safety of the reformulated compound in more advanced animal models.

(With contributions from the ANI)