China is taking strong action to fight the spread of Chikungunya virus (CHIKV), with over 7,000 cases reported in the Guangdong region. The city of Foshan is the most affected, and a case has now been confirmed in Hong Kong. Authorities are using strict measures, reminding many of early COVID responses.
Chikungunya spreads through bites from infected Aedes mosquitoes—the same kind that transmit dengue and Zika. The virus is not passed from person to person. While rarely fatal, symptoms can be severe and long-lasting.
According to the World Health Organization, symptoms usually appear 4–8 days after a mosquito bite. These include:
- Sudden fever
- Severe joint pain
- Muscle aches
- Swelling
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Rash
“The joint pain can last weeks, months, or even years,” health experts warn. Older adults, infants, and people with health problems face higher risks.
China urges people to seek medical help if symptoms appear. Officials also advise removing standing water to stop mosquito breeding—fines may apply if ignored.
