In Guangdong province, China, over 7 thousand cases of Chikungunya virus infection have been reported. The highest number of sick individuals has been detected in the city of Foshan, where restrictive measures similar to those during the COVID-19 pandemic have already been implemented. This information was disseminated by the BBC.
Those who have been infected are under medical supervision in hospitals. They can only be discharged after a negative virus test or after a seven-day treatment period.
Spread and Symptoms of the Virus
Chikungunya is transmitted through bites from infected mosquitoes. Among the main symptoms are high fever and severe joint pain, which in severe cases can last for an extended period. The first case was recorded in Hong Kong - a 12-year-old boy contracted the virus during a visit to Foshan. Cases of the virus have also been reported in 12 other cities in Guangdong province.
In the past week, around 3 thousand people have fallen ill. According to the BBC, 95% of the patients have mild illness and recover within a week. However, medical authorities recommend consulting a doctor at the first signs of illness.
China is currently facing an outbreak of Chikungunya virus, which is transmitted through mosquito bites. Emergency measures have already been implemented in Foshan, where the highest number of infections has been recorded. Similar measures to those during the COVID-19 pandemic may also be introduced in other cities in Guangdong province.