1 Sep 2025 : The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 2 travel alert (Practice Enhanced Precautions) for Guangdong Province, China, in response to a growing outbreak of chikungunya virus. The mosquito-borne disease has re-emerged as a pressing global health concern, with authorities in both China and abroad scrambling to contain its spread.
What’s Happening in China?
The outbreak, now China’s largest recorded chikungunya incident, centers in Foshan, Guangdong. More than 7,000 cases have been confirmed in recent weeks, and cases have trickled into nearby regions including Hong Kong and Macau.
In an unprecedented response, Chinese officials have deployed drones to identify mosquito breeding spots, introduced larvae-eating fish, and enforced sanitation measures, including fines for homes failing to eliminate standing water. These efforts underscore the seriousness of the outbreak.
Why CDC Action Matters
The CDC’s alert underscores the risk posed to international travelers. The advisory recommends enhanced precautions such as using mosquito repellents, wearing protective clothing, and staying in accommodations with screens or air conditioning to reduce bite risk.
Since there’s no specific antiviral treatment, early symptom management—fever reduction, hydration, and pain relief—is essential for recovery. Pregnant travelers, especially those near term, are strongly advised to reconsider visiting Guangdong due to the risk of mother-to-child transmission during delivery. Vaccination is recommended for travelers to the area, where available.
Global Context: Why Mosquito Viruses Are Resurging
Chikungunya—and similar mosquito-borne viruses like dengue and Zika—is back in the spotlight for multiple reasons:
- Climate Change & Urban Growth: Rising temperatures and rapid urbanization have expanded habitats of Aedes mosquitoes, the primary vectors, increasing transmission risk in non-endemic regions.
- Vector Adaptability: Mosquito species like Aedes albopictus have adapted to spread chikungunya efficiently. Mutations in the virus—such as those increasing infectivity—further amplify transmission risks.
- Containment Challenges: As seen in China, crowded cities coupled with climate factors create perfect breeding conditions. Coordinated surveillance and mosquito control are critical for disease mitigation.
Travelers: How to Stay Safe
- Apply EPA- or WHO-recommended mosquito repellents
- Wear long sleeves and light-colored clothes
- Stay in air-conditioned or well-screened lodgings
- Remove standing water around your environment
- Consider vaccination, especially for high-risk populations (e.g., immunocompromised, elderly)
- Stay alert for symptoms like fever, rash, joint pain, and consult a doctor immediately if they occur
Summary
The CDC has issued a Level 2 travel alert for Guangdong, China, amid a major chikungunya outbreak. Global resurgence of mosquito-borne viruses highlights the impact of climate change, urbanization, and travel—prompting enhanced preventive measures.