Indian Cricketer Yuzvendra Chahal Diagnosed with Dengue and Chikungunya: Health Experts Urge Vigilance

New Delhi, December 20, 2025 — Indian cricketer Yuzvendra Chahal has been diagnosed with both dengue and chikungunya simultaneously, two serious mosquito-borne viral diseases. The revelation came through Chahal’s recent social media post, where he informed fans about his health condition and confirmed that he was unable to participate in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) final due to medical advice.

In an emotional message shared on X (formerly Twitter), Chahal wrote that while he was eager to be part of the final and support his Haryana team on the field, his deteriorating health forced him to step aside. Doctors have advised him complete rest and recovery. He expressed confidence that he would return to competitive cricket soon with renewed strength.

Rising Threat of Mosquito-Borne Diseases in India

In a country like India, mosquito-borne illnesses such as dengue and chikungunya are increasingly common, especially during and after the monsoon season. These diseases are spread by the female Aedes mosquito, which typically bites during daylight hours and breeds in clean, stagnant water found in coolers, flower pots, buckets, discarded tyres, and open water tanks.

What is Dengue?

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), dengue is a viral infection transmitted through the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito. Common symptoms include:

• High fever
• Severe headache
• Pain behind the eyes
• Muscle and joint pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Skin rashes

In severe cases, dengue can lead to a sharp drop in platelet count, organ damage, internal bleeding, and shock, which can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.

How Dengue Spreads and Who is at Risk

Dengue spreads when a mosquito bites an infected person and then transmits the virus to a healthy individual. Once infected, the mosquito can spread the virus throughout its lifespan. People living in crowded areas, regions with poor sanitation, and places with stagnant water face a higher risk. Individuals who contract dengue a second time with a different viral strain are at greater risk of developing severe dengue.

What is Chikungunya?

Chikungunya is another viral disease transmitted by the same Aedes mosquito. It is characterized by:

• Sudden high fever
• Severe joint pain and swelling, especially in hands, wrists, ankles, and feet

Symptoms typically appear 3 to 7 days after the mosquito bite. While many patients recover within a week, joint pain can persist for months or even years, significantly affecting quality of life.

Can Dengue and Chikungunya Occur Together?

Yes. Medical experts confirm that a person can be infected with both dengue and chikungunya at the same time, as both are spread by the same mosquito species and are prevalent during the same season.

Warning Signs That Need Immediate Medical Attention

Patients should seek urgent medical care if they experience:

• Severe abdominal pain
• Persistent vomiting
• Bleeding from the nose or gums
• Blood in vomit or stool
• Difficulty breathing
• Extreme weakness, restlessness, or drowsiness

These symptoms may indicate a serious complication.

Recovery Timeline

• Dengue: Recovery usually takes 1 to 2 weeks, though weakness may persist longer. Adequate rest, hydration, and regular monitoring of platelet levels are essential.
• Chikungunya: Fever typically subsides within a week, but joint pain may continue. Treatment includes rest, mild exercise, physiotherapy, and medication as advised by doctors.

Prevention is the Best Protection

To prevent dengue and chikungunya:

• Use mosquito repellents, especially during morning and evening hours
• Sleep under mosquito nets
• Ensure no stagnant water collects around homes
• Regularly clean coolers, flower pots, water tanks, buckets, and tyres

Public health experts emphasize that community awareness and preventive measures are crucial to controlling the spread of these diseases.

Disclaimer: This article is intended for general awareness only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. Readers are advised to consult qualified healthcare professionals for diagnosis and treatment.