Chikungunya fever in Mexico and Central America

Chikungunya fever is widespread in many Latin American and Caribbean countries. Current reports from Mexico and Central American countries include the following:

• Mexico - cases reported in Campeche and Michoacan
• Guatemala - more than 4,500 cases
• Honduras - continues to be widespread; most affected municipalities include Comayagua, La Libertad
• Panama - cases are occurring in Panama City
• El Salvador - continues to report large numbers of cases

Advice

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.