Guangdong urges enhanced mosquito prevention after 1,199 chikungunya cases confirmed

The local disease control and prevention center in Foshan, Guangdong urged the public on Saturday to step up mosquito eradication and prevention measures after 1,199 cases of chikungunya fever were confirmed in three districts.

As of July 18, the cases were found in Shunde district, Nanhai district and Chancheng district of Foshan city in South China's Guangdong province, all of which were mild, according to local health authorities.

Chikungunya is a disease caused by the chikungunya virus, which is transmitted to humans by infected mosquitoes, with large outbreaks and sporadic cases reported mostly in the Americas, Asia and Africa, and occasional smaller outbreaks in Europe, according to the World Health Organization.

The symptoms are similar to those of dengue and Zika, making chikungunya easy to misdiagnose and making it more difficult for countries to accurately determine the number of infected people.

Chikungunya causes fever and severe joint pain, which is often debilitating and may be prolonged; other symptoms include joint swelling, muscle pain, headache, nausea, fatigue and rash.

The local CDC reminds residents to focus on both mosquito eradication and prevention, with clearing stagnant water being a key measure in control efforts. Residents are advised to regularly remove standing water from balconies, courtyards, flowerpots, and air conditioner tray pans, dispose of discarded containers, and ensure drainage channels remain unobstructed.

When going out, avoid peak mosquito activity times and wear light-colored long-sleeved clothing to minimize skin exposure. Apply effective mosquito repellent products to exposed skin or clothing. Home improvements like installing screen doors, using mosquito nets, electric swatters, or mosquito lamps can prevent insects from entering homes.

If symptoms such as fever, rashes, or joint pain occur, especially after visiting certain areas, seek medical attention promptly.

After passing through the epidemic area, people should go to a medical institution as soon as possible and inform the doctor of the recent trip.