Home NEWS IIT Roorkee Discovers Potential Drug To Fight Chikungunya And Mosquito-Borne Diseases

IIT Roorkee Discovers Potential Drug To Fight Chikungunya And Mosquito-Borne Diseases

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IIT Roorkee Discovers Potential Drug To Fight Chikungunya And Mosquito-Borne Diseases

IIT Roorkee Discovers Potential Drug To Fight Chikungunya And Mosquito-Borne Diseases

IIT Roorkee Discovers Potential Drug To Fight Chikungunya And Mosquito-Borne Diseases (Image Credits: iStock)

Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Roorkee have made a significant discovery that could lead to a potential treatment for Chikungunyaa mosquito-borne disease that causes fever, severe joint pain, muscle aches, and rashes.
According to IIT Roorkeea drug commonly used for HIV treatment, Efavirenz, has shown promising results in reducing the replication of the Chikungunya virus in both laboratory tests and mice models. The study, supported by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), suggests that Efavirenz could be repurposed as an antiviral therapy for Chikungunya.

How Efavirenz Works Against Chikungunya

The research found that Efavirenz effectively reduced the levels of the Chikungunya virus in infected lab-grown cells and mice. This discovery is particularly crucial because there is currently no approved antiviral treatment for Chikungunya, meaning patients rely solely on managing symptoms like fever and joint pain.

The study also found that Efavirenz also affected the replication of the Sindbis virus, a virus closely related to Chikungunya. This suggests that the drug might have broader antiviral properties.

Experts Take On The Findings

Dr Sanket Nehul, the first author of the study, explained that Efavirenz appears to interfere with the Chikungunya virus early in its replication process. “Since this drug is already widely used for HIV treatment, further clinical trials can explore its potential for Chikungunya. This could help speed up the process of finding a treatment and reduce costs compared to developing a brand-new antiviral drug,” he stated.

Prof. Shailly Tomar, the corresponding author of the study, emphasized that the current treatment for Chikungunya is limited to symptom management. “Our research provides initial scientific evidence that Efavirenz could be a promising antiviral drug for Chikungunya. However, clinical trials will be necessary to confirm its effectiveness in patients,” he added.

IIT Roorkee Director Prof. Kamal Kishore Pant also explains the importance of the study, stating that the institute remains committed to research that tackles pressing public health challenges. “This study is a step forward in addressing mosquito-borne viral infections,” he said.

The research has been published in a peer-reviewed scientific journal, marking an important milestone. However, the researchers caution that more studies and clinical trials are needed before Efavirenz can be officially recommended as a treatment for Chikungunya.

How to Protect Yourself from Chikungunya

While researchers continue working on potential treatments, prevention remains the best defence against Chikungunya. Here are some ways to protect yourself from mosquito bites and reduce the risk of infection:

    Use Mosquito Repellents: Apply DEET-based or natural mosquito repellents on exposed skin, especially during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
  • Wear Protective Clothing: Opt for long-sleeved shirts, pants, and socks to reduce skin exposure.
  • Use Mosquito Nets: If you’re in a high-risk area, sleep under mosquito nets to prevent bites at night.
  • Eliminate Breeding Sites: Empty stagnant water from flower pots, coolers, and containers where mosquitoes can lay eggs.
  • Install Screens and Keep Windows Closed: Use window and door screens to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home.
  • Use Mosquito Coils or Vaporizers: These can help repel mosquitoes indoors, reducing the risk of bites.
  • Stay Indoors During Peak Hours: Avoid going outside during early morning and evening, when mosquitoes are most active.

    • The discovery of Efavirenz as a potential treatment for Chikungunya brings hope, but more research is needed before it can be widely used.

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