ALBANY, N.Y. (CBSNewYork/AP) — U.S. Sen. Charles Schumer is asking the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to issue a health alert to medical professionals in New York and around the country for identifying, treating and containing the chikungunya, or “chik-v,” virus, a mosquito-borne illness that causes fevers, joint and muscle pain, headaches, joint swelling and rashes.

Schumer Concerned World Cup Fans Returning To U.S. Might Bring Back Mosquito-Borne Virus

One of the mosquito species carrying the virus and responsible for disease transmission is prevalent in Brazil.

“We have to prevent the spread of this virus before it reaches the United States in large numbers,” Schumer told reporters, including 1010 WINS’ Glenn Schuck, on Sunday.