Expected use

The Chikungunya IgM Combo Rapid Test Sheet is a lateral flow chromatographic immunoassay for the qualitative detection of anti-chikungunya virus （CHIK） IgM in human serum, plasma or whole blood. It is intended to be used as a screening test and as an aid in the diagnosis of CHIK infection. Any specimen reactive with the Chikungunya IgM Combo Rapid Test Sheet must be confirmed with alternative test methods and clinical findings.

Summary and explanation

Chikungunya is a rare viral infection transmitted by the bite of an infected Aedes aegypti mosquito. It is characterized by a rash, fever, and severe joint pain (arthralgia) that usually lasts three to seven days. The name is derived from the word Makonde which means "that which bends" in reference to the stooped posture developed as a result of the arthritic symptoms of the disease.

It occurs during the rainy season in tropical areas of the world, mainly in Africa, Southeast Asia, southern India, and Pakistan. The symptoms are usually clinically indistinguishable from those seen in dengue. In fact, a double infection with dengue and chikungunya has been reported in India. Unlike dengue, hemorrhagic manifestations are relatively rare, and the disease is most often a self-limited febrile illness. Therefore, it is very important to clinically distinguish dengue from CHIK infection.