China tackles chikungunya virus outbreak with wide range of measures as thousands fall ill
Chikungunya virus outbreak in China sees Covid-style measures launched
- An outbreak of the chikungunya virus has seen over 7,000 cases reported, primarily in the manufacturing hub of Foshan, China.
- The mosquito-borne virus causes fever and joint pain, similar to dengue fever, with the young, elderly, and those with pre-existing conditions most vulnerable.
- China is employing national-level protocols adopted to eliminate the outbreak.
- Authorities have implemented strict preventative measures similar to those during the Covid pandemic, including widespread disinfectant spraying, deploying drones, and imposing fines of up to 10,000 yuan for failing to disperse standing water.
- Heavy rains and high temperatures have exacerbated the situation, leading the US to issue a travel advisory for China's Guangdong province.