JACKSON, Mississippi (AP) — The Mississippi State Department of Health has confirmed the first case of chikungunya virus, a mosquito-borne illness traditionally found in Africa and Asia.
State health officials say in a news release a Mississippi resident who recently returned from Haiti has the illness.
Symptoms include fever, muscle and joint pain and joint swelling. Deaths are rare, but officials say anyone with a compromised immune system is at a higher risk of complications from the infection.
Officials say several other potential cases are currently under investigation.
They say the chikungunya virus has recently appeared in the Caribbean, and could possibly infect Mississippians who travel there.
Health officials say individuals who think they might be infected with chikungunya virus should see their health care provider.
