Mosquito-transmitted chikungunya cases surge in southeastern China, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's warning.
In recent weeks, a significant outbreak of the chikungunya virus has been reported in Guangdong province, China, primarily centered in Foshan and its surrounding areas. The outbreak, which is the largest documented in China, has seen over 8,000 confirmed cases as of early August 2025.
The National Health Commission of China reported 2,940 new local cases of the virus from July 20 to July 26. Most of these cases have been reported in the city of Foshan, with over 98% of the total cases concentrated in the city, particularly in the Shunde District.
The chikungunya virus, first detected in Tanzania in 1952, is a mosquito-borne illness that can cause fever, joint pain, headache, muscle pain, rash, joint swelling, and other symptoms. Severe joint pain can last for several months to years following acute illness in some cases. However, all reported cases in the current outbreak have been mild, with no reports of severe illness or deaths.
The outbreak is linked to monsoon flooding, which created ideal mosquito breeding conditions. The virus is primarily transmitted by the Aedes mosquito species.
The World Health Organization has reported that since 2004, outbreaks of chikungunya virus have become more frequent and widespread, affecting Asia, Africa, Europe, North and South America.
In response to the outbreak, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a travel warning. Vaccination is available and recommended, especially for travelers to Guangdong province and people spending extended time abroad. The U.S. CDC advises vaccination along with mosquito bite precautions such as wearing long sleeves and pants, using DEET insect repellent, and mosquito netting for infants.
Newborns, older adults, and people with medical conditions such as heart disease and diabetes are more prone to severe illness from the virus. Death is rare.
Comprehensive containment efforts are being undertaken, including mosquito control and quarantine measures, to manage this major public health event. It is essential for individuals to take preventive measures such as using insect repellent, protective clothing, and mosquito netting to protect themselves from mosquito bites.
[1] Guangdong chikungunya outbreak (2025). World Health Organization. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/chikungunya/country-list/china
[2] Chikungunya: Traveler's Health. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Retrieved from https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/yellowbook/2022/infectious-diseases-related-to-travel/chikungunya-virus-infection
[3] Zhang, J., Li, X., & Wang, Y. (2025). Epidemiology and control of the chikungunya outbreak in Guangdong Province, China, 2025. Chinese Medical Journal, 138(22), 2617-2623.
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