Neurologist shares how chikungunya can trick your brain and mimic a stroke

In rare cases, the chikungunya virus can affect the brain, causing sudden imbalance and unsteady walking. Doctors say early recognition and MRI scans can make all the difference. (Image: Pexels)

In the thick of mosquito season, most of us brace for the usual suspects, fever, achy joints, and relentless body aches. Yet, a silent twist in the story has emerged. Rarely, the chikungunya virus doesn’t just leave you bedridden; it can affect the brain, causing symptoms eerily similar to a stroke. Staying alert and recognising these atypical signs early can mean the difference between full recovery and lasting damage.

The symptoms include sudden dizziness, unsteadiness, and difficulty walking. In most cases, doctors instinctively check for a stroke, but sometimes the culprit is far less predictable. “Initially, the symptoms look very much like a stroke,” recalls Dr Sheetal Goyal, Consultant Neurologist, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central, describing a recent patient in his 50s. Dr Goyal told Moneycontrol that, "Only a mild fever days prior hinted at the real cause, a chikungunya infection. MRI scans revealed a rare lesion in the splenium of the corpus callosum, a brain region connecting both hemispheres." With prompt treatment, the patient’s balance returned fully within a week, a testament to the importance of early recognition.

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Unlike the classic fever and joint pain most associate with chikungunya, neurological involvement often appears without warning. “Sudden imbalance, dizziness, uncoordinated movement, or difficulty walking may be the first—and sometimes only—signs.” she says. Such presentations are uncommon but documented, and misdiagnosis can delay recovery. “Early intervention, comprehensive history-taking, and targeted imaging are essential to distinguish viral causes from more serious conditions like strokes.” informs Dr Goyal.

Here’s what to watch out for:

1. Sudden dizziness or imbalance – not always a stroke; viral causes possible
2. Difficulty walking or uncoordinated movement – may appear without fever or aches
3. Mild preceding symptoms – sometimes only a low-grade fever hints at infection
4. Imaging is crucial – MRI scans can reveal subtle brain changes
5. Timely treatment matters – early care can restore normal function quickly.
6. Staying vigilant– Viral infections like chikungunya rarely venture into the central nervous system, but when they do, awareness is key. “Involvement, early referrals, and interconnected care can take potentially scary stories to stories of complete recovery,” says Dr Goyal.

Recognising that not every sudden imbalance signals a stroke can reduce panic, prevent misdiagnosis, and ensure patients receive prompt, effective treatment.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.