Dengue, Zika, and Chikungunya are diseases caused from being bitten by infected Aedes mosquitoes. Dengue fever emerged as a worldwide problem in the 1950s. These diseases are now spreading faster around the globe than ever.
The purpose of this article is to help you with skin rashes caused by either Dengue, Zika or Chikungunya fever. Learn about natural remedies that can help soothe your skin rash and relieve itching.
Do zika, chikungunya and dengue cause the same type of skin rashes?
Skin rash due to Zika
People with Zika virus disease usually have a mild fever, skin rash (exanthema) and conjunctivitis. These symptoms normally last for 2-7 days (source).
The skin rash usually looks like flat and bumpy spots. It starts on the face on the first day and can spread all over the body. It usually begins to fade within 2-3 days and is gone completely within a week (source).
Skin rash due to Chikungunya
People with Chikungunya will usually experience an abrupt onset of high fever accompanied by skin rash (source).
The first site of appearance of the skin lesions are most frequently the upper limbs, followed by the face and trunk. The skin rash in Chikungunya fever commonly affects the extremities, trunk, neck, and ear lobes (source).
Skin rash due to Dengue
The skin rash caused by Dengue is difficult to distinguish from other viral illnesses. The rash closely resembles measles.
The more severe cases usually occur in older children and adults and are characterized by a rapidly rising temperature that lasts approximately 5 to 6 days. During the febrile period, more than 50% of infected patients report having a skin rash (source).
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Can you treat these types of skin rashes?
If you suffer from either Zika, Chikungunya or Dengue, the skin rash will usually disappear on its own after a few days. However, these skin rashes can be itchy and the area around the skin may dry up and peel off after some time.
There’s no specific treatment for skin rashes caused by Zika, Chikungunya or Dengue. But some natural remedies can help soothe your skin rash and relieve itching. It’s definitely worth a try!
What are the best remedies to soothe a rash and relieve itching?
Oatmeal
Oatmeal contains compounds called avenanthramides that reduce inflammation. It’s also one of the most popular natural remedies to relieve itching.
How to use oatmeal to soothe a skin rash? Grind oatmeal in a blender, food processor or coffee grinder. Mix one cup of finely ground oatmeal in warm bath water. Soak in it for at least 15 or 20 minutes.
Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is an effective antiseptic, anti-fungal and anti-bacterial agent that relieves itching. It’s best to use raw, organic, unfiltered apple cider vinegar with the “mother” which contains raw enzymes and beneficial bacteria.
How to use it? Just put a few drops of apple cider vinegar onto a cotton ball or washcloth. Dab it on to skin rashes. If apple cider vinegar causes irritation, dilute it with water before applying it. If the irritation persists, then try another remedy.
Baking soda
Baking soda is a useful and effective home remedy for itching.
How to make a baking soda paste? Mix together baking soda and water to desired consistency, and rub on affected areas.
Aloe vera
Aloe vera is great for any kind of skin irritation. It will naturally soothe the skin and relieve itching and swelling.
How to use aloe vera? Apply pure aloe vera gel several times a day on the affected areas.
olive oil
Extra-virgin olive oil works as a great skin moisturizer. It facilitates healing and promotes skin renewal. Olive oil will also soothe skin rashes and reduce itching.
How to use it? Simply rub extra-virgin olive oil or a combination of equal parts of olive oil and honey.
Cold compress
A cold compress can be beneficial in reducing rashes. It helps ease itching, swelling and inflammation. It can be particularly useful if a rash begins to develop into blisters.
Put ice cubes in a sealed plastic bag and place it on the affected area for a few minutes. Repeat a few times daily for a few days. Note: Avoid applying a frozen pack or ice directly to your skin, which could cause tissue damage.
If you suspect you have Dengue, Chikungunya or Zika, you need to see a doctor immediately especially if you develop a fever with a rash, joint pain, or red eyes.
So far there is no approved/specific treatment or vaccine for these diseases. Treatment is purely symptom management.
The World Health Organization recommends that you start home care treatment by resting and drinking lots of water.
Prevent the spread of these diseases by avoiding mosquito bites and by using a safe and effective mosquito repellent.
Did you know that the mosquitoe is the world’s deadliest animal? Watch this video, you’ll be surprised!
- Sources
- Disclaimer
Article by
J. Beck
Sources for this article include:
- (1) https://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/zika/en/
- (2) https://www.dermnetnz.org/viral/zika.html
- (3) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2856378/#CIT6
- (4) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18986446
- (5) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2856380/
DISCLAIMER
The information provided on Optiderma.com is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for the advice of an appropriately qualified practitioner.
If you are allergic to the foods, herbs, essential oils, any remedies listed here, you must of course avoid them. For example, consuming food that you’re sensitive to will only cause more (not reduce!) inflammation.
Please consult a practitioner (such as Naturopath, Homeopath, Doctor of Chinese Medicine, Dermatologist, ...) to follow the most appropriate treatment to heal your skin. All legal mentions »
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