WHO Urges Immediate Action to Combat Resurgent Chikungunya Outbreaks
The World Health Organization (WHO) issued an urgent call to action on Tuesday to prevent a resurgence of the mosquito-borne chikungunya virus, warning of alarming parallels to a global epidemic that emerged two decades ago. New outbreaks originating in the Indian Ocean region have now spread to Europe and beyond, raising concerns over a potential widespread health crisis.
Diana Rojas Alvarez, a WHO medical officer, told reporters in Geneva that approximately 5.6 billion people across 119 countries are at risk of infection. The virus, transmitted primarily by Aedes mosquitoes—including the invasive “tiger mosquito”—can cause high fever, severe joint pain, and long-term disability.
History Repeating Itself
Rojas Alvarez warned that the current surge mirrors the 2004-2005 epidemic, which infected nearly half a million people, initially in small island territories before expanding globally. The latest outbreaks began in early 2025, with significant cases reported in Indian Ocean islands such as La Réunion, Mayotte, and Mauritius—regions previously hit hard by the virus.
- La Réunion has already seen an estimated one-third of its population infected.
- The virus is spreading to Madagascar, Somalia, Kenya, and Southeast Asia, including India.
Europe at Risk: Imported and Local Cases Rising
Of particular concern is the growing number of imported cases and local transmissions in Europe:
- France has reported around 800 imported cases since May 1, with 12 local transmissions detected in southern regions—meaning infections occurred via local mosquitoes, not travel.
- Italy confirmed its first locally transmitted case last week.
No Cure, Prevention is Key
There is no specific treatment for chikungunya, which shares vectors with dengue and Zika viruses. Since Aedes mosquitoes bite during the day, the WHO emphasizes preventive measures:
- Insect repellent
- Long-sleeved clothing
- Eliminating mosquito breeding sites
With climate change and increased global travel accelerating the virus’s spread, the WHO urges heightened surveillance and public awareness to curb another potential pandemic.
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