Chikungunya Virus Cases Surge Globally, Prompting Health Alerts

The chikungunya virus, a mosquito-borne infection known for causing severe joint pain and other debilitating symptoms, is experiencing a significant global resurgence. Health authorities are expressing concern as cases rise sharply, particularly in southern China and the United Kingdom.

This year, approximately 10,000 cases of chikungunya have been reported in China, with cities like Foshan and Guangzhou experiencing the highest numbers. The increase has been attributed to severe flooding resulting from monsoon rains, which have created ideal breeding conditions for mosquitoes. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has identified a 170 percent rise in chikungunya cases in England, with 73 cases reported from January to June 2025, compared to just 27 cases in the same period in 2024.

Understanding Chikungunya Symptoms and Risks

Chikungunya symptoms include fever, joint pain, swelling, muscle pain, nausea, rash, and fatigue. These can often be confused with those of other mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue and Zika virus. Although most individuals recover fully within one to two weeks, persistent joint pain affects up to 12 percent of patients for three years.

While serious complications from chikungunya are rare, the disease can be fatal in vulnerable populations, particularly young children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions. Dr. Philip Veal, a Consultant in Public Health at UKHSA, emphasized the severity of the disease, stating, “Chikungunya can cause severe joint and muscle pain, headaches, sensitivity to light, and skin rashes. Thankfully, symptoms usually improve within a few weeks, but joint pain may last for months or longer.”

Travel and Prevention Measures

The UKHSA has noted that most chikungunya cases in the country linked to travel have originated from areas experiencing ongoing outbreaks, particularly in Sri Lanka, India, and Mauritius. All reported cases in the UK were found in England, with a concentration in London.

In response to the rising number of cases, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the United States issued a Level 2 travel warning for Guangdong Province in China, where a total of 46 travel-related cases have been documented in 2025.

As preventative measures, health officials recommend individuals traveling to high-risk areas take steps to avoid mosquito bites. These include using insect repellent, wearing protective clothing, and sleeping under insecticide-treated bed nets. Dr. Veal also advises checking the Travel Health Pro website for updated health advice regarding travel destinations.

Recently, two chikungunya vaccines have been approved for use in the UK following recommendations from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI). The vaccines, IXCHIQ for those aged 18 to 59 and vimkunya for individuals aged 12 and older, are available at travel clinics following a healthcare assessment.

Despite the current outbreaks, the UKHSA has reassured the public that there is minimal risk of widespread chikungunya transmission within the UK. This is largely due to the absence of the mosquito species that carry the virus, as the UK climate does not support their survival.

The health community urges travelers to remain vigilant as the chikungunya virus continues to pose challenges, particularly in regions where climatic conditions favor mosquito populations.