Chikungunya fever continues in many countries in the Americas

The virus that causes chikungunya fever is widespread in Central and South America, as well as in Caribbean tourist destinations. Countries that are reporting at least 500 cases of this infection include the following:

• Mexico - almost 8,000 cases
• USA - 510 cases, all of whom occurred in travellers returning to the country
• Nicaragua - almost 47,000 cases
• French Guiana - almost 8,500 cases with 2 deaths
• Puerto Rico - almost 900 cases with 1 death
• Colombia - approximately 338,000 cases and 55 deaths
• Ecuador - approximately 33,000 cases with 2 deaths
• Venezuela - approximately 15,000 cases
• Paraguay - almost 3,900 cases

Advice

All travellers to areas where chikungunya fever virus is active can reduce their risk of exposure to this virus by taking all necessary precautions to avoid mosquito bites. Many persons with chikungunya fever do not seek medical care and are not reported to health authorities. There may be many more cases in the community that are not reported. Chikungunya virus infections may have long lasting health consequences.