More chikungunya in Mexico and Central American countries

Cases and outbreaks of chikungunya fever continue to be reported by the following countries:

• Mexico - nationwide, 2,646 cases. So far 16 states have reported cases who were infected by local mosquitoes. Affected states include Guerrero, Oaxaca, Chiapas, Jalisco (Guadalajara, Puerto Vallarta, La Huerta, Cuautitlan, and Tomatlan), and Michoacán.
• Honduras - nationwide, at least 50,000 cases. It is estimated that 40 per cent of the workforce is or has been affected by chikungunya virus infections.
• Costa Rica - nationwide, close to 1,000 cases. All 7 provinces are affected.
• Nicaragua - nationwide, almost 2,500 cases.
• Panama - nationwide, only 155 reported cases.

Advice

The risk of exposure to this virus is variable in this geographic region. Nevertheless, infected mosquitoes may be widespread. 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.

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. Chikungunya virus infections may have long lasting health consequences.