Chikungunya virus in Canada

Abstract

This article presents a previously reported case involving the first Canadian patient to acquire Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) infection after travelling to a newly endemic region in the Americas. The specific history and clinical presentation of this patient is examined, including the treatment and complete resolution of the patient’s symptoms. A brief overview of the general disease course and diagnosis of CHIKV is provided. This case emphasizes the importance of global health education in Canadian medical curricula. The current standards of global health education in Canadian medical schools are briefly reviewed and recommendations based on expert opinions are provided. Although such programs exist, their implementation was found to be variable between schools and increased attention and standardization is currently required.