The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 2 travel warning for visitors to China, urging travellers to “practice enhanced precautions” as cases of chikungunya continue to rise. According to the New York Post, Foshan city has been identified as the epicentre, with containment efforts reminiscent of early COVID-era measures.
Rising Concerns Over the Outbreak
Thousands of people in China have been infected, highlighting the growing threat of this mosquito-borne illness. While chikungunya is rarely fatal, it can lead to severe joint pain lasting for weeks, months, or even years, significantly impacting quality of life.
How Chikungunya Spreads
The disease is transmitted through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes, which thrive in warm and humid climates. Unlike many contagious illnesses, chikungunya is not spread through person-to-person contact, making mosquito control essential for prevention.
CDC Guidelines for Travellers
To reduce the risk of infection, the CDC advises travellers to:
Use EPA-registered insect repellents for effective protection. Wear long-sleeved clothing to minimise skin exposure. Avoid mosquito breeding sites, such as areas with standing water. Stay in screened or air-conditioned accommodations to reduce mosquito contact.
Pregnant women, especially those near delivery, are strongly advised to reconsider travel due to the rare risk of transmission during childbirth.
Vaccine Availability and Global Impact
Two vaccines for chikungunya have recently been approved in the United States, offering new preventive options for high-risk travellers. Globally, an estimated 35 million people contract chikungunya each year, with approximately 3,700 annual deaths.
In the US, 46 travel-related cases have been reported so far in 2025, down from nearly 200 in 2024. No locally transmitted cases have been documented since 2019, according to CDC records.
High-Risk Groups
Older adults, newborns, and individuals with chronic health conditions remain at greater risk of severe or prolonged complications from chikungunya. Travellers are urged to monitor health advisories and take preventive measures seriously to stay safe.
As global travel continues to rise, the CDC’s warning serves as a reminder of the importance of timely precautions and awareness of emerging health threats, especially in regions prone to mosquito-borne diseases.