Hong Kong's Risk For Locally Transmitted Chikungunya Continues

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health recently confirmed a total of five Chikungunya Fever (CF) cases have been recorded in Hong Kong in 2025, all of which were travel-related.

Additionally, as of August 10, 2025, one probable (local) case of this disease has been identified.

The CHP says that given the occurrence of multiple imported cases in Hong Kong, there is a risk of secondary local transmission via mosquitoes.

The CHP issued a letter reminding doctors to arrange testing for patients presenting symptoms consistent with CF, regardless of their travel history. Testing should also be considered for patients showing any symptoms of CF who have a travel history to affected areas, based on clinical judgment. The CHP's Public Health Laboratory Services Branch is providing free testing to ensure rapid diagnosis.

According to the U.S. CDC's Level 2 - Practice Enhanced Precautions, Travel Health Advisory issued on August 1, 2025, there is a substantial Chikungunya outbreak in Guangdong Province, China.

Most local and travel cases have been reported in Foshan City, which is located north of Hong Kong.

The CDC writes, 'You can protect yourself by preventing mosquito bites, which includes using insect repellent; wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants; and staying in places with air conditioning or that have screens on the windows and doors.'

Additionally, vaccination is recommended for travelers who are visiting an area with a chikungunya outbreak. Two chikungunya vaccines are approved for use in the United States and are available at travel vaccine retailers.

At present, there is no locally registered Chikungunya vaccine available in Hong Kong.