The Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is rapidly spreading across various cities in China, with health organizations reporting cases in Europe, Africa, the Americas, and other parts of Asia. Although CHIKV is not as deadly as COVID-19, it is affecting millions of individuals globally, prompting the implementation of home-based quarantines and the use of drones in densely populated regions. China is taking aggressive measures to contain the virus and prevent further infections, but reports indicate that cases have already emerged in several other countries.
The Chikungunya virus is responsible for the viral disease known as Chikungunya, which poses a significant risk for travelers headed to certain destinations, including China. First identified during an outbreak in Tanzania in 1952, the virus remained relatively contained within parts of Africa and Asia for many years, according to the UK government blog. However, it has recently expanded into new territories, affecting thousands of individuals worldwide. Since July, over 7,000 cases have been reported across China's Guangdong province, with Foshan city being the hardest hit. At least 12 other cities in the province have also documented infections.
Unlike COVID-19, Chikungunya virus is not contagious between humans. Officials have noted that 95% of hospitalized patients are discharged within seven days, indicating a lower mortality rate. Nevertheless, the United States has advised travelers to China to exercise ‘increased caution’ in light of the ongoing outbreak.
The Chikungunya virus is primarily mosquito-borne, transmitted through bites from infected female mosquitoes, which can also spread diseases like dengue and Zika, as stated by the World Health Organization (WHO). People are often bitten during daylight hours, both indoors and outdoors, with mosquitoes laying eggs in containers that accumulate standing water, such as plant pots and trash bins. If a mosquito bites an infected person, the virus can manifest in the mosquito over several days, allowing it to transmit the virus to another human host. This cycle continues, contributing to the spread of the disease.
Recently, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) confirmed that cases of Chikungunya virus have been reported in various regions, including the Americas, Africa, Asia, and Europe. In Europe, countries such as Italy and France have documented infections. Additionally, EU/EEA countries have reported imported cases from African nations like Madagascar and the Seychelles, indicating a potential increase in Chikungunya circulation in the Indian Ocean region.
In Asia, over 34,000 cases have been reported, particularly in countries like India, Sri Lanka, Mauritius, Pakistan, and China. In Africa, notable reports have come from Senegal and Kenya. Interestingly, the only countries in the Americas and the Caribbean confirming zero cases of Chikungunya virus include the Virgin Islands, Jamaica, Grenada, Puerto Rico, Uruguay, Chile, Ecuador, Panama, Nicaragua, Mexico, and Canada. Meanwhile, Brazil, Bolivia, Argentina, and Peru are among the countries reporting the highest number of cases. Belize, the Dominican Republic, Aruba, and Saint Lucia have not yet confirmed the presence of the disease in their territories. For a comprehensive list of affected regions, visit the PAHO's dedicated website.
Individuals infected with the Chikungunya virus typically experience symptoms within three to seven days after being bitten. According to the UK Government blog, initial symptoms often include a high fever and severe joint pain, followed by muscle pain, headaches, sensitivity to light, and distinctive skin rashes. Being aware of these symptoms can help individuals seek medical attention promptly.
In response to the outbreak, residents of Guangdong province face potential fines if they do not eliminate stagnant water from their properties. Chinese officials are employing drones to enforce these “decisive and forceful measures” aimed at curbing the spread of Chikungunya virus. Additionally, the government has authorized the release of giant 'elephant mosquitoes' and larvae-eating fish to help control the population of chikungunya-spreading mosquitoes, as reported by the BBC. Initially, patients and travelers from Foshan were asked to undergo a 14-day home quarantine, but this requirement has since been lifted.
