WHO Warns of Rising Global Risk from Chikungunya Virus Outbreaks

WHO Warns of Rising Global Risk from Chikungunya Virus Outbreaks
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The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued an urgent warning to prevent a resurgence of the chikungunya virus, a mosquito-borne illness now spreading beyond the Indian Ocean region. According to WHO medical officer Diana Rojas Alvarez, about 5.6 billion people in 119 countries are at risk.

The virus, which causes fever, joint pain, and possible long-term disability, has surged in 2025 with significant outbreaks in La Reunion, Mayotte, and Mauritius—areas previously hit during the 2004-2005 epidemic. La Reunion alone has seen about one-third of its population infected.

The virus is now spreading across parts of Africa, Southeast Asia, and increasingly into Europe. France has reported around 800 imported cases since May, along with 12 instances of local transmission, while Italy confirmed its first case last week.

Chikungunya has no specific treatment and spreads through Aedes mosquitoes. Health officials emphasize prevention measures such as insect repellents and protective clothing, especially during daytime hours.