China is confronting an outbreak of the mosquito-borne chikungunya virus, with over 7,700 cases reported primarily in Guangdong province since early July 2025. The city of Foshan, a core area of the outbreak, has seen a recent decline in daily new cases after a surge, but authorities continue to implement strict measures to control the spread. These include releasing mosquito-eating fish, deploying drones for insecticide spraying, enforcing real-name registration for fever and pain relief medication purchases, and citywide cleanup campaigns to eliminate mosquito breeding grounds. The outbreak has prompted the revival of some Covid-era health controls in Guangdong, including quarantine-like restrictions and public mobilization efforts not seen since the pandemic. The virus causes fever and severe joint pain, which can persist for months, and there is no specific treatment available. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 2 travel advisory for China, urging travelers to practice enhanced precautions amid the outbreak. Globally, chikungunya infections have reached approximately 240,000 cases. Hong Kong has reported several imported cases linked to travel from Foshan. Health officials are also exploring biological control methods, such as releasing Toxoryhnchites mosquitoes, to reduce the population of Aedes mosquitoes responsible for transmission. The World Health Organization has warned of the global spread of chikungunya, emphasizing the need for preventive measures. The outbreak has led to widespread media coverage and government responses aimed at curbing the virus's impact and preventing further transmission.
China desata a sus nuevos “héroes” contra el chikungunya: mosquitos caníbales gigantes. ¿Funcionará esta táctica poco convencional? Más detalles: https://t.co/ZLtBqt3B73 📸: Valery Hache/Getty Images vía Bloomberg https://t.co/9Q7A7IEsRW
[Vía @futuro_360] ¿Qué es el chikungunya y cómo se transmite? China enfrenta brote con medidas extremas para contener la expansión del virus https://t.co/wCm2NAVyrE
China revives Corona atmosphere and imposes strict preventive measures in Foshan city to confront the spread of the "Chikungunya" virus