Sindbis fever

Sindbis fever is a mosquito-borne disease endemic in northern Europe, where large outbreaks occur intermittently. Symptoms generally appear within a week and include:

• a bumpy and itchy rash, like spots and small bumps
• fever
• pain in wrists, hips, knees and ankles
• nausea
• headache
• muscle pain

Asymptomatic infections are also common.

Key facts

Risk for people 

Most infections occur during August and September when there is high mosquito population density. Once a person is infected, they are immune for life. The incidence rate is highest in people aged 30-69 years. 

How it spreads

The virus circulates among birds and mosquitoes, and mosquitoes spread the virus to humans. There is currently no evidence of the disease spreading from humans to other humans. 

Vaccination and treatment

There is no vaccine or specific treatment for the disease. Antihistamines are used for the rash and analgesics for the pain.

Protective measures

The main prevention is to avoid mosquito bites by using mosquito nets, wearing clothes that cover most of the body and using mosquito repellent.