Chinese health authorities are addressing an outbreak of a mosquito-transmitted virus that leads to intense pain. Over 7,000 cases of chikungunya have been documented in Guangdong province, primarily in the city of Foshan. Infected individuals are currently under quarantine in hospitals until they test negative for the virus. Workers are conducting inspections in Foshan residences to identify potential risk factors such as stagnant water where mosquitoes can breed.
Efforts include spraying insecticide in parks and streets, as well as releasing “elephant mosquitoes” and mosquito-eating fish to combat the virus-carrying insects. Recently, the Canadian government updated a Level 2 travel advisory, urging travelers to practice enhanced health precautions when visiting China due to chikungunya. This advisory also extends to other regions such as Reunion, Mayotte, Mauritius, Madagascar, Kenya, Somalia, Bolivia, and Sri Lanka.
Chikungunya is transmitted by infected female mosquitoes, primarily the Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus subspecies, which are also carriers of Zika and dengue viruses. Symptoms typically appear four to eight days after a mosquito bite. While outbreaks and isolated cases have been reported worldwide, the Pan American Health Organization has reported over 209,000 chikungunya cases in the Americas this year, with the highest numbers in Brazil.
Symptoms of chikungunya include fever, severe joint pain, muscle pain, headaches, nausea, and rashes. Although most individuals recover fully within several days, some may experience complications such as eye, heart, and neurological issues, along with prolonged joint pain. Vulnerable populations such as newborns, the elderly, and those with underlying health conditions face a higher risk of severe symptoms and, rarely, death.
According to infectious disease specialist Dr. Isaac Bogoch, chikungunya derives its name from the Kimakonde language of southern Tanzania, where the disease was first identified in 1952. The term means “that which bends up,” describing the contorted posture of individuals experiencing severe joint pain.
Dr. Bogoch reassures Canadians that the risk of a chikungunya outbreak in Canada is minimal, emphasizing the importance of preventive measures such as wearing protective clothing and using insect repellent. The IXCHIQ vaccine is available in Canada, but not recommended for individuals over 65 years old. Seeking guidance from travel clinics before trips to regions with infectious diseases is advised for a safe and healthy travel experience.
