China is battling its largest-ever chikungunya outbreak, with over 7,000 cases reported as of Wednesday (August 13). The mosquito-borne virus has infected thousands of people primarily in the southern manufacturing hub of Foshan, approximately 105 miles from Hong Kong. Authorities are using nets, insecticide, and drones to combat the spread.
Unusually heavy rains and high temperatures have worsened the crisis. Experts say the outbreak is notable because chikungunya has never been established in mainland China before, suggesting most people had no pre-existing immunity. The government has warned of fines for individuals who don’t empty water from outdoor receptacles, which can attract mosquitoes.
To combat the spread, workers are spraying insecticide around urban areas and residential sites. Drones are being used to identify standing water where mosquitoes lay eggs. With new cases slowly declining, authorities seem to be gaining control over the outbreak.
Source: https://www.express.co.uk/news/world/2094663/chikungunya-virus-sparks-china-pandemic-fear