Alarm in China, thousands of cases of the virus spread by mosquito bites are reported, here are the symptoms

2025-08-05 15:27:24Kosova&Bota SHKRUAR NGA REDAKSIA VOX

Alarm in China, thousands of cases of the virus spread by mosquito bites are

Over 7,000 cases of the 'chikungunya' virus, which is transmitted by mosquitoes, have been reported in China's Guangdong province.

The city of Foshan is the hardest-hit, where patients are being kept in hospital under strict measures, according to the BBC.

In addition to Foshan, at least 12 other cities in the southern province of Guangdong have reported infections.

Nearly 3,000 cases were reported in the last week alone.

Although cases are mild, Chinese authorities have warned of increased caution.

However, the cases have led to panic, given that the virus is not widely known in the country.

Meanwhile, the US has urged travelers in China to show "increased caution" after the outbreak.

But what is 'chikungunya'?

Most people bitten by an infected mosquito will develop symptoms of 'chikungunya' within three to seven days.

In addition to fever and joint pain, other symptoms include redness, headache, muscle aches, and swelling of the joints.

In most cases, patients will feel better within a week. However, in severe cases, joint pain can last for months or even years.

Those who are at risk for more serious illnesses include newborns, the elderly, and people with underlying health problems, such as heart disease or diabetes.

There is no cure, but deaths from 'chikungunya' are rare.

The virus was first identified in Tanzania in 1952. It then spread to other countries in Sub-Saharan Africa and Southeast Asia.

To date, it has been reported in more than 110 countries.

The best way to prevent the spread of the virus is to "reduce" stagnant water pools that allow mosquitoes to multiply, according to the World Health Organization.


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