Chikungunya Outbreak Hits Southern China, Prompting Health Measures

Southern China is currently facing an outbreak of chikungunya, a disease transmitted by mosquitoes. Thousands of cases have been reported, with a significant increase in the number of infections observed in recent weeks. The city of Foshan, located in Guangdong province, has been particularly affected by the surge in cases.

The deputy director of the National Center for Disease Control and Prevention described the outbreak as "quite severe." Chikungunya is spread through the bites of infected mosquitoes and is characterized by fever and severe joint pain. While deaths are uncommon, the disease can cause significant discomfort.

To combat the spread of the disease, the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention has issued guidelines for prevention. These recommendations include using physical barriers like screen doors and mosquito nets, as well as applying mosquito repellent to exposed skin. The agency has indicated that the outbreak is "imported" but has not specified the origin. Individuals experiencing symptoms such as fever, rash, and joint pain are advised to seek medical attention.

The Shunde district of Foshan, where the majority of cases are concentrated, is a popular destination for visitors. To manage the increasing number of patients, local authorities have significantly increased the number of isolation beds equipped with mosquito nets. Residents are also being urged to eliminate standing water in their homes, as this provides breeding grounds for mosquitoes. Violations of these guidelines may result in fines.

While Beijing has reported occasional imported cases of chikungunya, the disease is not widespread in the city. Although there are chikungunya vaccines available in some countries, they are not widely accessible or in common use. China experienced its first significant outbreak of chikungunya in 2010, with a smaller number of cases reported in subsequent years. The country's first recorded case of the disease was imported in 1987.