3 Orange County residents have chikungunya fever

Health officials say three Orange County residents who traveled to the Caribbean this year have tested positive for a mosquito-borne virus.

The Orange County Register reported Wednesday that the three traveled separately and were diagnosed with chikungunya fever between February and July.

The virus is similar to dengue fever. It is transmitted by yellow fever mosquitoes and Asian tiger mosquitoes, which are not commonly found in California but have been detected in some counties recently.

The most common symptoms are fever and painful joints, often affecting the hands and feet. Other symptoms may include headache, muscle pain, joint swelling or rash.

There is no vaccine and no specific treatment. Most people feel better in a week but some may have joint pain for several months or years.