Daijiworld Media Network - Beijing

Beijing, Aug 6: Over 7,000 chikungunya cases have been reported in China, with Guangdong province emerging as the worst-affected region. In response, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 2 alert, urging travellers to China to exercise enhanced precautions.

The CDC has recommended vaccination for travellers heading to outbreak-affected areas. Chikungunya is a mosquito-borne viral illness transmitted through Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes. While not contagious through close human contact, the virus may transmit via infected blood.

Symptoms include sudden high fever, severe joint and muscle pain, swelling, fatigue, headache, and rash. Joint pain is often prolonged, especially among the elderly and those with pre-existing health issues.

Although chikungunya is rarely fatal, vulnerable groups like newborns, older adults, and immunocompromised individuals may face complications. Treatment focuses on symptom relief through anti-inflammatory medication, painkillers, rest, and hydration.

Preventive measures include the use of mosquito repellents, wearing protective clothing, sleeping under nets, and eliminating stagnant water. Staying indoors during dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active, is also advised.

According to the WHO, chikungunya was first identified in Tanzania in 1952 and later spread across Asia and Africa. The US currently offers two vaccines: IXCHIQ and VIMKUNYA.