Fears the chikungunya virus has reached Bermuda have been curbed after tests did not detect the infection in a suspected patient.

The resident had travelled to an area affected by the virus, which causes extreme joint pain, fever and headache.

It is transmitted by bites from infected mosquitoes, and has made it’s first appearance in the Western Hemisphere this year.

The Department of Health’s Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit was notified of the suspected Bermuda case this month.

A spokeswoman said lab tests did not confirm chikungunya, dengue or influenza so “the case will therefore be recorded as un-differentiated fever in accordance Bermuda’s syndromic surveillance system”.

She added that while waiting for the results of the tests, which had to be sent abroad, the patient was instructed on how to avoid mosquito bites, especially during the first week of illness to avoid possible transmission.

The individual was advised to remain indoors, ensure screens on doors and windows were intact, and wear mosquito repellent, long sleeves and long pants.

The Department of Health also recommended reducing the presence of standing water to lower the number of mosquito breeding sites.

The other members of the household were also encouraged to avoid mosquito bites.

There is no vaccine or medication to prevent chikungunya virus infection or disease.

Travellers to countries where chikungunya is present are urged to reduce the risk of mosquito bites by using air conditioning and window/door screens; use mosquito nets when sleeping; cover exposed skin with repellent; wear long sleeves and pants and preferably permethrin-treated clothing; and avoid emptying standing water from outdoor containers

People at increased risk for severe disease should reconsider trips to areas with chikungunya outbreaks.