China is grappling with a Chikungunya virus outbreak, with over 7,000 confirmed cases reported since July 2025, primarily centered in Guangdong Province.

The outbreak has hit Foshan city the hardest, where hospitals are overwhelmed with patients. In an effort to control the virus’s spread, patients are now being hospitalized under mosquito nets, and are only discharged after testing negative for the virus.  Eyes Of Lagos reports,

Strict Measures in Place to Contain Spread

Health authorities in Guangdong have launched aggressive containment efforts. Residents have been urged to eliminate stagnant water around their homes to stop mosquito breeding, the primary transmission route for Chikungunya.

Additionally, travelers from Foshan are required to undergo a 14-day quarantine to prevent exporting the virus to other cities and provinces.

Global Concern: Over 240,000 Cases Worldwide

While China battles to contain the local outbreak, the global situation is also alarming. According to international health reports, over 240,000 Chikungunya cases and at least 90 deaths have been reported across 16 countries since the resurgence of the virus in mid-2025.

What is Chikungunya?

Chikungunya is a mosquito-borne viral disease transmitted mainly by the Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus species. It causes sudden onset of fever, joint pain, fatigue, and rashes. While it is rarely fatal, the virus can cause debilitating long-term symptoms, especially in older adults and those with underlying health conditions.

Health experts are advising citizens to take precautions such as using insect repellents, sleeping under mosquito nets, and wearing protective clothing.

China’s Health System on Alert

Chinese health officials are working closely with international agencies to monitor and control the outbreak. Emergency response teams have been deployed in Foshan and neighboring regions, and public health campaigns have been intensified to inform and protect the public.