Chikungunya (CHIKV) is a re-emerging endemic arbovirus, a viral disease transmitted by the _Aedes aegypti_mosquito. There is currently no specific treatment for the infection; the main public health impact lies in the sequelae left by the disease: severe joint pain can become chronic and last for years. Argentina is reporting 388 cases of which 220 cases locally, mainly in the Santa Fe region. Brazil is reporting 144 985 cases nationally; with 68 deaths and an additional 107 under investigation. The American Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a travel warning for Timor Leste which has reported 195 cases of chikungunya, with neighbouring countries such as Thailand, Pakistan and Malaysia also reporting cases in 2024. Senegal has been experiencing and ongoing outbreak, there have been over 300 cases of chikungunya in West Africa. Most interesting is the emergence of a novel variant in this situation in Senegal.
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Advice for travellers
Chikungunya virus is spread by the same daytime-feeding mosquitoes that transmit dengue fever. There is no vaccine licensed in Australian and preventing infection relies on avoiding mosquito bites. Apply an effective repellent when outdoors to all exposed skin. Read more about chikungunya.
Before you travel, call Travelvax Australia’s telephone advisory service on 1300 360 164 (toll-free from landlines) for country-specific advice and information. You can also make an appointment at your nearest Travelvax clinic to obtain vaccinations, medication to prevent or treat illness, and accessories for your journey.