Chikungunya: Understanding the Disease and Strengthening Mosquito Prev

Recently, Hong Kong has reported 3 imported cases of chikungunya, drawing widespread public concern. Chikungunya is a mosquito-borne disease, alarming in Hong Kong, as recent heavy rain has created a humid environment ideal for mosquito breeding.

Chikungunya Overview: Symptoms and Transmission

Chikungunya is, mainly transmitted to humans through bites from female Aedes albopictus mosquitoes carrying the virus. The incubation period is usually 2 to 12 days. Common symptoms include fever, severe joint pain, muscle pain, headache, fatigue, and rash. According to the Centre for Health Protection (CHP), most symptoms subside within a few days, but joint pain can persist for months or even years in some patients, affecting quality of life.

Currently, there is no specific antiviral treatment or registered vaccine for Chikungunya. Management focuses on relieving symptoms, making the prevention of mosquito bites the most effective protective measure.

Recent Cases: Increasing Risk of Importation

According to multiple media outlets, including RTHK and Now News, Hong Kong recently recorded three new imported cases of chikungunya: a 79-year-old woman who visited Foshan, Guangdong, and a father and son who traveled to Bangladesh. All cases were associated with overseas travel, indicating a higher risk of mosquito bites in high-risk areas.

The CHP has conducted epidemiological investigations and implemented targeted mosquito control measures, such as strengthening mosquito elimination around patients’ residences. The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department has also carried out intensive fogging and water removal at locations visited by the patients.

Practical Mosquito Prevention Tips

Everyone should do their part to reduce mosquito breeding. Here are some practical recommendations:

Personal Protection

Wear Protective Clothing: When going outdoors, wear loose-fitting, light-colored long-sleeved clothing to reduce skin exposure.
Use Insect Repellents: Apply DEET-containing repellents to exposed skin and clothing. Pay attention to concentration limits for pregnant women and children.
Avoid Peak Biting Hours: Aedes mosquitoes are most active during the day, especially at dawn and dusk. Be extra vigilant during these times.
Use Mosquito Nets and Devices: When traveling to high-risk areas, carry portable mosquito nets or use permethrin-treated products.
Remove Standing Water: Clean vases, plant saucers, and air conditioner trays weekly to eliminate breeding sites.

Join Hands to Prevent Mosquitoes and Protect Health

The recent Chikungunya cases are a timely reminder of the importance of mosquito control. Cleaning stagnant water at home, using repellents appropriately, and wearing long-sleeved clothing are simple yet effective preventive measures. After traveling, monitor your health closely. If you develop a fever or feel unwell, seek medical attention immediately. By working together and adopting good mosquito prevention habits, we can protect ourselves and our families, creating a safer community for all.

Source:

Centre for Health Protection

https://www.chp.gov.hk/tc/healthtopics/content/24/6122.html
TVB News

RTHK

https://news.rthk.hk/rthk/ch/component/k2/1817038-20250806.html

HK01

https://www.hk01.com/社會新聞/60264328/

Now News

https://news.now.com/home/local/player?newsId=613919

on.cc https://hk.on.cc/hk/bkn/cnt/news/20250806/bkn-20250806193753199-0806_00822_001.html

Ming Pao News

https://news.mingpao.com/ins/港聞/article/20250807/s00001/1754534439120/