Chikungunya cases in Foshan rise to 2,600; Hong Kong residents traveling north urged to stay cautious

The chikungunya outbreak in Foshan, Guangdong Province, continues to escalate, with local health authorities reporting a cumulative total of 2,659 confirmed cases in Shunde District as of July 21. This outbreak, triggered by local transmission following the first imported case on July 8, has raised significant public concern, despite most cases being mild.

With the summer holidays underway, many Hong Kong residents are traveling to Guangdong for family visits or tourism. However, the region is currently in the peak season for mosquito activity. Experts urge Hong Kong travelers to take extra precautions against mosquito bites to reduce the risk of infection. Typical symptoms of chikungunya include persistent fever, joint pain or arthritis, and rashes, with joint pain potentially lasting weeks or even months.

Deputy director of the Guangdong Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, highlighted that newborns, individuals over 65, and those with chronic conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, or heart disease are at higher risk of complications if infected and require special attention.To prevent infection, health authorities recommend the following measures:

1. Avoid outdoor activities during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
2. Wear light-colored, long-sleeved clothing and use repellents containing DEET.
3. Eliminate standing water indoors to prevent mosquito breeding.
4. Seek medical attention immediately if symptoms such as fever, rash, or joint pain appear, and proactively inform doctors of travel history and mosquito bite exposure.

Local authorities have implemented emergency measures to curb the spread of the outbreak, but residents are urged to remain vigilant and take personal precautions. As the peak summer travel season approaches, Hong Kong residents visiting Guangdong must prioritize health safety to avoid chikungunya infection from mosquito bites.