The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued an urgent call to prevent a repeat of a chikungunya virus epidemic, which is spread by mosquitoes and affected the globe two decades ago. The concern stems from new outbreaks in the Indian Ocean region that are now spreading to Europe and other continents.
Global Threat and Symptoms
According to WHO official Diana Rojas Alvarez, approximately 5.6 billion people in 119 countries live in areas at risk from this virus. Chikungunya causes fever, severe joint pain, and can lead to long-term disability.
“We are seeing history repeat itself,” she said, comparing the current situation to the 2004-2005 epidemic, which affected nearly half a million people—primarily in small island territories—before spreading worldwide, REL reports.
Current Outbreaks and European Cases
The latest wave of spread began in early 2025, with major outbreaks in the same Indian Ocean islands previously affected, including La Reunion and Mauritius. Alvarez stated that the virus has already affected about one-third of the residents in La Reunion.
The spread is continuing in other countries such as Madagascar, Somalia, and Kenya, while numerous cases have also been reported in India and parts of Southeast Asia. A particular concern is the increase in imported cases within Europe. Since May 1, approximately 800 imported cases of chikungunya virus have been registered in France, Alvarez noted.
Prevention is Key
Chikungunya, for which there is no specific treatment, can cause rapid and large outbreaks. Because mosquitoes that carry the virus bite during the day, prevention is essential. The WHO recommends using insecticides and wearing long-sleeved clothing to reduce exposure.
