Chikungunya Associated Deaths Continue in Brazil

The mosquito-transmitted chikungunya disease virus has been reported in Brazil since 2014, with 2024 setting record increases in cases and associated fatalities.

According to Brazil's Ministry of Health Arboviruses report on February 25, 2025, 16 confirmed chikungunya deaths were confirmed this year, on pace with the 236 deaths in 2024. 

Unlike last year, the case/death ratio currently exceeds the data reported in the previous year.

In Brazil's hot spot, Sao Paulo State's ratio (2,063/1) appears to be on pace with 2024.

When visiting Brazil, the U.S. CDC says vaccination is recommended for people aged 65 years or older, especially those with underlying medical conditions, who may spend at least 2 weeks (cumulative time) in indoor or outdoor areas where mosquitoes are present in Brazil, or those planning to stay in Brazil for a cumulative period of 6 months or more.

From a risk mitigation perspective, the U.S. FDA-approved chikungunya vaccine is more widely available in 2025, as most travel clinics and pharmacies will offer this innovative vaccine to international travelers visiting outbreak areas.