WHO Alert: Chikungunya Virus Back After 20 Years, 560 Crore People At Risk
Chikungunya resurfaces after 2 decades, with WHO warning millions across Asia and Europe now being at risk
In 2005, Chikungunya wreaked havoc across several countries, beginning in the Indian Ocean region and eventually affecting over half a million people. After seemingly fading away, the virus has now made a worrying comeback, prompting the World Health Organisation (WHO) to issue an urgent alert due to rapidly rising cases across Asia and Europe.
560 Crore People At Risk Worldwide
WHO Medical Officer Diana Rojas Alvarez has reportedly revealed that approximately 560 crore people across 119 countries are currently at risk. Chikungunya is transmitted by mosquitoes, especially those active during the rainy season.
It can cause high fever, intense joint pain, and in rare cases, long-term disability. There is currently no vaccine available.
Rapid Spread Mirrors 2005 Outbreak
The 2025 surge has revived memories of the 2005 epidemic, which began on small islands such as La Réunion, Mayotte, and Mauritius. Today, up to 33% of La Réunion's population has reportedly been infected.
The virus has also spread to parts of Africa, including Madagascar, Somalia, and Kenya, with signs of epidemic growth in South-East Asia, particularly in India, where increased mosquito breeding during the monsoon season is heightening the threat.
Health officials are especially concerned about the virus's spread into Europe, a region where Chikungunya was previously rare. This change is being attributed to global travel and climate change.
Since May 1, France has reported around 800 cases, including 12 local transmissions, while Italy has also confirmed an infection.
Aedes Mosquitoes: The Daytime Danger
Chikungunya is primarily spread by Aedes mosquitoes, which are active during daylight hours and also transmit diseases such as dengue and Zika. These mosquitoes flourish in warm, humid conditions and are particularly difficult to control during rainy seasons.
While many recover fully, joint pain can persist for weeks or even months. The elderly and those with existing health issues are at higher risk of complications. With no vaccine or cure currently available, the WHO stresses prevention as the best defence:
Global Call To Action
The WHO has called on governments and health agencies worldwide to ramp up mosquito control, public awareness campaigns, and disease surveillance to avert a repeat of the 2000s crisis. Early action could be the key to preventing a global outbreak.
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