Chikungunya virus spreads to 119 countries, WHO warns
The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a warning as the chikungunya virus continues to spread across multiple regions, with 119 countries now reporting cases. An estimated 5.5 million people worldwide are at risk of infection, China Media Group reported.
Transmitted by mosquitoes, the symptoms of chikungunya include high fever, intense joint pain, and prolonged fatigue. Around 40 percent of infected individuals may experience long-term disability lasting months or even years. Although rarely fatal, the virus can be life-threatening in severe cases.
As of mid-July 2025, the Americas have recorded the highest number of chikungunya virus disease (CHIKVD) cases reported globally, according to data collected on 14–15 July. Brazil leads with 185,553 reported cases, followed by Bolivia with 4,721, Argentina with 2,836, and Peru with 55, according to European Center for Disease Prevention and Control.
"We are seeing history repeating itself," said Diana Rojas Alvarez, a medical officer at the WHO, drawing parallels to the 2004-2005 epidemic, which affected nearly half a million people, primarily in small island territories, before spreading around the world.
The current surge began in early 2025, with major outbreaks in the same Indian Ocean islands which were previously hit, including La Reunion, Mayotte and Mauritius. An estimated one-third of La Reunion's population has already been infected, Rojas Alvarez said. The virus is now spreading to countries such as Madagascar, Somalia and Kenya, and has shown epidemic transmission in Southeast Asia, including India.
Currently, two vaccines have been developed but are largely targeted at travelers. WHO is working with countries to strengthen laboratory testing, train healthcare workers, and improve outbreak surveillance. The organization is also planning to establish a new strategic advisory group to provide global guidance on prevention and control.
(Source:CGTN)
