Chikungunya is a mosquito-borne virus that causes long-term joint pain and disability. The number of cases has jumped to over 240,000 in 2025, with new outbreaks in China and persistent transmission across Latin America, Europe, and Africa.
The virus, spread by two species of Aedes mosquitoes, typically affects adults working in their prime years, causing debilitating pain that can last for years. However, vaccine supplies are limited and expensive, making them inaccessible to many countries experiencing outbreaks.
Experts warn that the rapid spread of Chikungunya reflects the impact of climate change on disease patterns. As temperatures rise, Aedes mosquitoes carrying the virus are moving into new regions, including parts of Europe and Asia. Weakened global surveillance and funding cuts make it harder to detect early cases, setting the stage for future outbreaks with significant human and economic costs.
Dr. Diana Rojas Alvarez, a World Health Organization expert, describes the devastating effects of Chikungunya: “People who were previously healthy, can’t even perform basic tasks like typing or cooking.” As climate change continues to reshape disease patterns, it’s essential to address the gaps in global surveillance and take steps to prevent future outbreaks.
Source: https://www.ehn.org/mosquito-borne-virus-spreads-fast-as-warming-climate-expands-insect-range