Chikungunya is a viral disease, first discovered in the 1950s. More recently, it has been in the limelight as its spread mounts across tropical areas and viruses spark major outbreaks. As seen in the recent outbreak in Guangdong Province, China, this can trigger panic. The new breeding grounds provided by monsoon flooding are perfect conditions for the Aedes mosquitoes which will spread the virus. Experts are increasingly sounding the alarm that as global temperatures increase and rainfall patterns shift, mosquitoes are spreading to new regions. This expansion increases the threat of Chikungunya moving into the U.S.
Since the start of 2025, nearly 240k Chikungunya cases have occurred worldwide. Although the disease is still rare within the United States, international travelers to endemic areas should continue to be aware and alert. Chikungunya typically has an incubation period of under a week. While the majority of infected individuals will recover completely without any medical intervention within seven to ten days, an unknown but potentially significant proportion of people will experience persistent symptoms that last for weeks or potentially months.
Understanding Chikungunya and Its Transmission
Chikungunya is mainly transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, especially Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus. These mosquitoes are most active in warm and humid climates, putting tropical areas at higher risk for outbreaks. Moisture brought from the devastating recent monsoon flooding in neighboring Guangdong Province has made ideal conditions for mosquito breeding. As a result, infections are skyrocketing.
Experts note that the combination of warmer temperatures and increased rainfall is facilitating the expansion of Aedes mosquitoes into new regions. Dr. Krutika Kuppalli emphasizes this concern, stating, “Warmer temperatures and increased rainfall are helping Aedes mosquitoes expand into new regions.” This change is a huge public health concern because places long considered free from Chikungunya are suddenly vulnerable.
Precautions for Travelers
As travel resumes following pandemic restrictions, it is crucial for individuals visiting high-risk areas to take necessary precautions against Chikungunya. Dr. Todd Ellerin recommends several preventive measures: “Wear long sleeves and pants, use insect repellent with DEET, and use mosquito netting for babies too young for repellent.” By following these recommendations, travelers can greatly decrease their risk of contracting and passing on the virus.
For people who have recently traveled to areas where outbreaks have been reported, it’s crucial to pay attention to symptoms. Dr. Ellerin advises, “If it’s been more than a week since you left a high-risk area, you’re likely in the clear.” This 8-hour window allows people to better judge their risk and get medical treatment if symptoms appear.
Vaccination Efforts
The threat of Chikungunya continues to increase. Thankfully, there are two vaccines currently available in the United States that will keep you safe from this virus. These vaccines start protecting you within roughly two weeks of just ONE dose. Public health officials are urging people who will be traveling to high risk areas to include vaccination in their prevention plan.
