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Chikungunya Surges in China and Europe as Spain Steps Up Defenses

Mosquito-control operations are expanding in preparation for the commercial rollout of a promising chikungunya vaccine

Overview

  • Guangdong province has recorded more than 8,000 chikungunya infections concentrated in Foshan as aggressive vector-control measures including fumigation and habitat removal are implemented.
  • France and Italy have reported 49 and two autochthonous chikungunya cases respectively, prompting heightened surveillance along shared borders and public awareness campaigns.
  • Spanish health authorities estimate 50 to 100 imported chikungunya cases annually and have reinforced diagnostic protocols along with tiger mosquito reduction strategies in Mediterranean regions.
  • There is no specific antiviral treatment for chikungunya, so clinical care focuses on symptomatic relief with paracetamol and adequate hydration.
  • A vaccine developed by Bavarian Nordic showing 85–90 percent efficacy in research trials is expected to enter the market soon pending real-world safety and effectiveness evaluations.