FOXNews | 23:04 08-12-2025 | US Today
Health authorities around the world are raising alerts due to an ongoing surge in chikungunya cases, especially in tropical regions. Chikungunya, a viral disease transmitted to humans by infected mosquitoes, has reportedly caused 155 fatalities, as confirmed by the World Health Organization (WHO).
The rapid spread of this mosquito-borne virus is causing global public health concern. Subjecting infected individuals to fever and severe joint pain, chikungunya could become a significant health issue if the situation is not promptly addressed. The disease has been identified in about 60 countries in Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas as of the recent reports.
Due to its exponential increase, WHO and other health sectors have reinforced their efforts to control the mosquito population, particularly in affected areas. Various control measures and interventions have been implemented, aiming to curb the further spread of the disease. Despite chikungunya being rarely fatal, its symptoms can greatly affect an individual's quality of life, persisting for months.
Public health officials, apart from battling chikungunya at its origin, have informed travelers and people living in these areas about the risks of this disease. Furthermore, they emphasize the importance of personal protective measures such as using insect repellent, wearing light-colored, long-sleeved shirts and pants, and ensuring rooms are fitted with screens or mosquito nets. This global chikungunya outbreak serves as a poignant reminder of the persistent struggle against mosquito-borne illnesses.