What is chikungunya virus? US travelers warned amid China outbreak

They came for blood — and left behind something worse.

Thousands of people in China have been infected with a painful mosquito-borne virus, triggering the country’s most aggressive public health response since COVID and stoking fears of a potential pandemic.

Now, US health officials are urging travelers to take extra precautions not just in China, but across parts of Asia, Africa and South America, as cases multiply around the globe.

Here’s everything you need to know about the potentially deadly chikungunya virus.

What is chikungunya virus?

It’s a viral illness that is spread when a mosquito carrying the chikungunya virus bites a person, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

While you can’t catch it from another person through bodily contact or saliva, some healthcare workers have gotten infected after handling the blood of sick patients.

How common is it?

Studies show that about 35.3 million people are infected with the chikungunya virus each year across 180 countries and territories. While it can be deadly, it’s estimated to cause just 3,700 deaths annually.

In the US, 46 travel-related cases have been reported so far this year. In 2024, that number hit nearly 200. Fortunately, no local mosquito-transmitted cases have popped up in America since 2019, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

What are the symptoms of chikungunya?

Symptoms usually begin within 2 to 7 days of being bitten by an infected mosquito. They may include:

• Sudden high fever
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Rash
• Nausea
• Red eyes

Most people recover within a few weeks, but about 40% develop debilitating joint and muscle pain that can last for months or even years after being infected, per the Mayo Clinic.

While death from chikungunya is rare, it can cause serious complications affecting the eyes, heart, and nervous system.

Those at higher risk include older adults, people with chronic conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes, young children, and pregnant women who may pass the virus to their babies.

Can you treat it?

There are no medications that can treat the virus, but rest, plenty of fluids and over-the-counter pain relievers can ease symptoms.

However, the CDC warns against using aspirin or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen until dengue or similar infections have been ruled out, since they can increase the risk of bleeding.

Where is the virus spreading?

China’s Guangdong Province is currently ground zero for the chikungunya outbreak. But other hotspots include Bolivia, Kenya, Madagascar, Somalia and Sri Lanka.

The CDC is also warning travelers visiting countries like Brazil, Colombia, Mexico, India, Pakistan, the Philippines, Thailand and Nigeria. While no outbreaks have been declared there yet, the risk of exposure is high.

How can US travelers stay safe?

If you’re heading to an affected area, the CDC recommends getting vaccinated. There are two shots that have been approved in the US to protect against chikungunya.

Once there, protect yourself from mosquito bites by using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants, and staying in air-conditioned or screened-in accommodations.

The CDC is urging pregnant travelers, especially those nearing delivery, to reconsider travel to areas facing outbreaks to avoid risking transmission to their babies.