Implemented actions during COVID-19 crisis in China
In the bustling industrial hub of Foshan, Guangdong province, China, an ongoing and significant Chikungunya virus outbreak has been reported, with over 8,000 confirmed cases by early August 2025 [1][3]. This outbreak marks the largest documented occurrence of the virus in China.
The Chikungunya virus is known for causing a fever of up to 40 degrees Celsius, headaches, nausea, and severe muscle and joint pain [1]. The majority of cases in Foshan have been mild, presenting with fever, joint pain, and rash, with no severe illness or deaths reported so far [2]. The outbreak is characterised by sustained local transmission, unlike prior imported cases, due to increased environmental suitability for Aedes mosquitoes and low population immunity [1].
Authorities in Foshan and Guangdong province have taken aggressive containment measures to combat the outbreak. These include enforced inpatient care and household inspections to monitor compliance [3][1], vector control via drone-based fogging, adulticide spraying, and elimination of mosquito breeding sites within at least a 100-meter radius of confirmed cases’ residences and workplaces [1][2]. In addition, insecticide-treated window screens and bed nets are being installed in patients’ rooms, and residual repellents are being applied to living spaces during the infectious period to interrupt transmission [2]. Legal enforcement is also being used, with fines for non-compliance and the enforcement of mosquito control efforts [1][3].
Real-time vector surveillance is being employed using indices like the Breteau Index to monitor mosquito populations and optimise control efforts [2]. Innovative techniques, such as using mosquito-eating fish to reduce larvae populations, are also being utilised [3].
In other countries like Russia, although detailed recent updates specific to Russia’s Chikungunya response were not found, standard international public health responses typically include prevention of mosquito bites through personal protective measures (repellents, bed nets), vector control efforts similar to those in Foshan, surveillance and early detection of cases to prevent outbreaks, and public education campaigns to raise awareness about preventing mosquito bites and recognising symptoms [1][2][3].
Given that Chikungunya is transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes and there is no widely available vaccine, preventing mosquito bites and controlling mosquito populations remain the cornerstone of outbreak control globally, including in Russia and other countries at risk [1][2][3].
As of late July, no imported cases of Chikungunya virus infection have been recorded in Russia [1]. In China, residents have been instructed to eliminate stagnant water in their homes to prevent mosquito breeding [1]. The current epidemiological situation in Russia indicates no danger of the Chikungunya virus infection spreading within the country [1]. Failure to comply with these instructions may result in a fine of up to 10,000 yuan [1].
References: [1] https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-021-26107-9 [2] https://www.who.int/news-room/q-a-detail/chikungunya [3] https://www.cdc.gov/chikungunya/outbreaks/2025-china.html
- In the realm of health and wellness, chronic diseases, respiratory conditions, and eye health are crucial areas that require our constant attention.
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- In the face of outbreaks like the Chikungunya virus, it's crucial to understand that prevention is key, particularly through measures that control mosquito populations.
- In light of Chikungunya's transmission by Aedes mosquitoes and the absence of a widely available vaccine, it's essential to combat its spread by adhering to personal protective measures, vector control efforts, and public education.
