The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a travel health notice for China following a significant rise in cases of chikungunya, a mosquito-borne viral disease. The alert advises travellers to take extra precautions to avoid mosquito bites, which can transmit the virus.
What is Chikungunya?
Chikungunya is a viral infection spread by Aedes mosquitoes, the same species responsible for dengue and Zika. Symptoms include:
- High fever
- Severe joint pain
- Muscle aches
- Headache
- Rash
While rarely fatal, the disease can cause debilitating pain lasting weeks or even months.
CDC Recommendations for Travellers
The CDC advises those visiting affected regions in China to:
- Use EPA-registered insect repellent
- Wear long-sleeved clothing
- Stay in air-conditioned or screened accommodations
- Remove standing water where mosquitoes breed
Pregnant women, young children, and those with chronic medical conditions are at higher risk of severe complications.
Current Outbreak Situation
China has reported a notable increase in chikungunya cases, particularly in southern provinces where Aedes mosquitoes thrive. Health authorities are implementing mosquito control measures, but travellers should remain vigilant.
The CDC notice comes as summer travel to China peaks, with many tourists potentially exposed to infected mosquitoes. No vaccine currently exists for chikungunya.
