The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has raised the risk level for chikungunya virus transmission in China from Level 1 to Level 2, warning travelers to take enhanced precautions. The outbreak, centered in Guangdong Province, is linked to mosquito-borne spread and can cause fever, joint pain, and other severe symptoms. In its updated guidance, the CDC recommends that travelers who are visiting an area with an outbreak of the virus get vaccinated against chikungunya if possible, except for pregnant women, who are advised to reconsider travel to affected regions due to the potential risk to their unborn child.
Pregnant women are being urged to avoid travel to areas with a significant chikungunya outbreak, particularly if they are close to delivering their baby. The CDC notes that the virus can be transmitted from mother to child both during pregnancy and after birth, with infected newborns facing the risk of severe illness and potential long-term complications. The agency warns that while severe disease is rare, it is more common among young children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions.
Medical professionals are advising travelers to seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms such as fever, joint pain, headache, muscle pain, joint swelling, or rash, which may indicate infection. The CDC is also emphasizing the importance of protective measures such as using insect repellent, wearing long-sleeved clothing and pants, and staying in environments with air conditioning or screens on windows and doors to reduce exposure to the virus.
Officials in Guangdong Province, where the outbreak is centered in Foshan City, have taken aggressive measures to contain the spread of the virus, with some observers comparing their response to the mitigation efforts implemented during the previous pandemic. These actions include extensive public health campaigns, improved surveillance systems, and increased mosquito control efforts. Despite these measures, the CDC’s warning underscores the need for continued vigilance from both travelers and local health authorities to prevent further spread of the virus.
While the outbreak is currently localized to Guangdong Province, the CDC is monitoring the situation closely, recognizing the potential for the virus to spread to other regions. The agency is also highlighting that while there are no specific antiviral medications or vaccines available to treat chikungunya, preventive measures remain the most effective way to reduce the risk of infection. As the global health landscape continues to evolve, public health organizations are working to ensure that travelers are well-informed and prepared to take the appropriate steps to protect their health and the health of those around them.