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Chikungunya Outbreak in China Sparks COVID-Like Response
A mosquito-borne virus, chikungunya, has infected over 7,000 people in at least 13 Chinese cities, prompting authorities to implement strict preventative measures reminiscent of the COVID-19 pandemic. While the virus is not transmitted person-to-person, the rapid spread within Guangdong province has raised concerns. Nearly 3,000 cases have emerged in the past week alone.
The outbreak originated in Foshan city after an imported case was detected in early July. The virus is not typically prevalent in China.
In response, authorities have mandated hospital quarantine for infected individuals, requiring them to remain under mosquito nets until they test negative. Aggressive mosquito control measures are also in place, including home inspections to eliminate stagnant water breeding grounds.
Non-compliance can result in fines or criminal charges.
Authorities have deployed a range of unusual tactics to combat the mosquito population, including introducing “elephant mosquitoes” whose larvae prey on the virus-carrying species, releasing mosquito-eating fish, spraying pesticides, and using drones to locate breeding sites. In a surprising move, electricity has been cut off to at least five households that refused to cooperate with inspections.
Chikungunya is characterized by headache, muscle pain, nausea, fatigue, rash, and swollen joints. While most symptoms subside within two weeks, joint pain can persist for extended periods.
The virus is transmitted solely through mosquito bites, with infected individuals passing the virus back to mosquitoes, which can then infect others. While not contagious between people, this cycle allows the virus to spread rapidly within mosquito populations.
Two chikungunya vaccines are approved in the U.S., but they are generally recommended only for travelers to affected areas. Though present in the U.S., chikungunya is uncommon, primarily affecting travelers returning from abroad.
Cases have been increasing recently, with 199 travel-associated cases in 2024 and 46 so far in 2025. The CDC has issued a Level 2 travel alert for Foshan city, recommending vaccination for visitors and advising against travel for pregnant women.
The recent identification of a case in Hong Kong suggests the outbreak may continue to spread.