CDC Issues Level 2 Travel Alert as Chikungunya Outbreak Spreads Across Four Countries

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 2 Travel Alert for several international destinations after new outbreaks of the chikungunya virus were confirmed. The advisory covers Cuba, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and China’s Guangdong Province—regions where mosquito-borne infections have surged throughout 2025.

A Growing Global Health Concern

Chikungunya is transmitted through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes and is known for causing intense joint pain, persistent fatigue, and high fever. While most patients recover, symptoms can last for months, and severe complications—though rare—pose increased risks for older adults and individuals with chronic health conditions.

With no specific antiviral treatment or cure available, travelers face heightened vulnerability, particularly in regions with dense mosquito populations.

Pregnant Women and High-Risk Groups Urged to Avoid Travel

Health authorities issued a special warning for pregnant women. The virus can be transmitted from an infected mother to her newborn during delivery, making late-term pregnancy an especially high-risk period for travel to outbreak-affected areas.

Global Case Count Surges Across 40 Countries

Data from the World Health Organization shows a sharp rise in chikungunya infections worldwide:

• 445,000+ suspected and confirmed cases (Jan–Sept 2025)

• 155 associated deaths

• 16,000+ local infections in Guangdong, China

• 732 cases in Bangladesh

• 151 cases in Sri Lanka

• 34 cases in Cuba

These figures highlight an expanding international public-health challenge.

CDC Recommends Strict Safety Precautions

To reduce infection risk, the CDC advises all travelers to:

• Get vaccinated before travel (when available)

• Use insect repellent regularly

• Wear long sleeves and long pants

• Avoid areas with heavy mosquito activity

• Stay in air-conditioned or well-screened housing

The agency emphasized that it will continue updating travel advisories as new data emerges.

Other Countries Also on Watchlist

Although not currently experiencing active outbreaks, several additional countries—including Brazil, India, Mexico, Nigeria, and Thailand—are listed as high-risk due to elevated mosquito activity and past infection patterns.

As global case numbers rise, experts encourage travelers to remain vigilant and stay informed about evolving health guidance.