The World Health Organization has issued a global health alert, warning that the chikungunya virus may soon trigger a widespread epidemic akin to the devastating 2004–2005 outbreak . Health officials note a spike in cases across the Indian Ocean region—Reunion, Mayotte, and Mauritius—with about one-third of Reunion’s residents already infected.
Now spreading rapidly, the virus has reached Africa (Kenya, Somalia, Madagascar), Southeast Asia—including India—and Europe. Since May, France has reported approximately 800 imported chikungunya cases and 12 local transmission events, while Italy recorded its first autochthonous case. Scientists estimate that 5.6 billion people across 119 countries live in areas at risk.
Chikungunya, transmitted by daytime-biting Aedes mosquitoes, manifests as high fever, rash, fatigue—and debilitating joint pain that can linger for months or even years—potentially causing long-term disability. Though fatalities remain low (around 1 per 1,000 infections), large-scale outbreaks could result in thousands of deaths.
With no specific vaccine or antiviral treatment available, WHO emphasizes prevention: mosquito control, public awareness, and personal protection—such as repellents, long sleeves, and eliminating standing water.
WHO’s early warning seeks to mobilize global action before the virus takes hold in new regions. The organization urges immediate, coordinated efforts—especially during monsoon and summer seasons—to avert a full-scale epidemic.
