CDC alerts travelers as chikungunya virus spreads in China: Why mosquito viruses are back in the spotlight

The CDC has issued a Level 2 travel alert for Guangdong Province, China, due to a significant chikungunya outbreak affecting over 7,000 people since mid-2025. Transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, the virus causes high fever and severe joint pain. Travelers are urged to take enhanced precautions, including vaccination and mosquito bite prevention.