Peralta likely to be sidelined with flu-like symptoms

Joel Peralta believes he's headed to the disabled list for the first time in his career due to symptoms that resemble those of the Chikungunya virus.

The veteran reliever made his last appearance on July 12 against Toronto. He went home to the Dominican Republic over the All-Star break and said he began feeling bad on Friday.

The symptoms Peralta experienced were similar to those of the Chikungunya virus, which include joint pain, headaches and fever.

"I've had a fever and pain in my joints," said Peralta by telephone on Monday. "Feels like all my joints are sore. That's how I feel."

The virus is spread by mosquitos and has recently become more common in Caribbean countries. Peralta vaguely remembers encountering some during his off-days in the Dominican.

"I think so," Peralta said. "I kind of remember getting bit by a mosquito. One or two times."

Peralta said the only treatment has been Advil and Tylenol for his fever.

"It's supposed to last a week, then it just goes away," he said. "I do feel better today. Able to walk better."

Peralta, who is 2-3 with a 4.15 ERA in 43 appearances this season, expects the Rays to put him on the disabled list.

"I don't know yet, but it's most likely because I need a couple of days to get back," he said.