Chikungunya Continues Arriving in Florida

The Florida Department of Health (DOH) today announced updated surveillance data on chikungunya fever cases in the state.

As of February 4, 2026, the data emphasize the ongoing risks associated with travel to chikungunya-endemic areas, particularly Cuba, as well as the rare but noteworthy occurrence of local transmission in Florida.

As of the latest reporting period (#4) in 2026, nine cases have been confirmed among individuals with travel history to chikungunya-endemic areas within two weeks before onset, all linked to travel to Cuba.

And one case of locally acquired chikungunya fever was reported in Miami-Dade County, with symptom onset in December 2025. 

In 2025, a total of 350 chikungunya cases were reported among individuals who had recently traveled to chikungunya-endemic areas. These cases were distributed across multiple Florida counties, with Miami-Dade County reporting the highest number at 229.

Chikungunya fever is a viral illness primarily transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes. Symptoms include high fever, severe joint pain, muscle pain, headache, nausea, fatigue, and rash. Most individuals recover completely; however, joint pain can be debilitating and may persist for months in some cases. There is no specific antiviral treatment, but supportive care can help relieve symptoms.

The DOH and the U.S. CDC advise travelers to endemic areas to consult local healthcare clinics about preventive strategies, including vaccination options. In Florida and most states, U.S. FDA-approved chikungunya vaccines are available in 2026.