China is experiencing a surge in chikungunya virus cases, with over 10,000 infections reported, mostly in Guangdong Province.

The city of Foshan alone has over 7,000 cases, prompting Covid-like isolation measures for patients.

Though no deaths have been reported, the virus—spread by Aedes mosquitoes—can cause fever, joint pain, and, in rare cases, severe complications.

The CDC has issued a Level 2 travel advisory for the region and recommends precautions like insect repellent and protective clothing.

Globally, chikungunya cases have risen sharply in 2025, with 240,000 cases and 90 deaths reported across 16 countries.

The virus has spread through parts of Asia, Africa, the Americas, and the Pacific, and isolated cases have appeared in the US, all travel-related, the Daily Mail has reported.

Two non-routine vaccines (IXCHIQ and VIMKUNYA) are available for travelers and high-risk individuals, but there is no specific antiviral treatment.

Written by B.C. Begley