CDC travel notice issued for countries in the Indian ocean region due to chikungunya
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a Level 2 travel notice for countries in the Indian Ocean region-Mauritius, Mayotte, Réunion, Somalia, and Sri Lanka due to outbreaks of chikungunya.
For example, on La Réunion Island, more than 47,500 confirmed cases of indigenous chikungunya has been reported since the beginning of the year, including 12 deaths.
A total of 116 chikungunya cases have been reported by ARS Mayotte, France, including 29 imported cases, 57 locally acquired cases, and 30 cases under investigation.
In Sri Lanka as of March 14, 2025, Weekly Epidemiological Report #12 indicated 173 cases in Colombo, Gampaha, and Kandy.
Chikungunya disease is caused by the chikungunya virus and is spread to humans through mosquito bites. CDC says you can protect yourself by preventing mosquito bites, which includes using insect repellent; wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants; and staying in places with air conditioning or that have screens on the windows and doors.
’Tis the Season for Ticks and Mosquitoes
Vaccination is recommended for travelers who are visiting an area with a chikungunya outbreak. Two chikungunya vaccines are approved for use in the United States- IXCHIQ and Vimkunya.
Health officials also note that if you are pregnant, reconsider travel to the affected areas, particularly if you are close to delivering your baby. Mothers infected around the time of delivery can pass the virus to their baby before or during delivery. Newborns infected in this way or by a mosquito bite are at risk for severe illness, including poor long-term outcomes.
Most people infected with chikungunya virus develop some symptoms. Symptoms of chikungunya usually begin 3–7 days after a bite by an infected mosquito. The most common symptoms are fever and joint pain. Other symptoms may include headache, muscle pain, joint swelling, or rash. Most people get better within a week; however, some can have severe joint pain for months to years following acute illness.
People at risk for more severe disease include newborns infected around the time of birth, older adults (65 years or older), and people with medical conditions such as diabetes or heart disease. Death from chikungunya is rare.
There is no specific treatment for chikungunya.