Hong Kong’s health officials have confirmed the 65th imported case of Chikungunya fever this year, prompting renewed vigilance and increased public health advisories for international travelers. The recent infection involves a 63-year-old male from the Kwai Tsing District who developed symptoms following a trip to mainland China, underscoring the ongoing threat of travel-related viral transmission. Following laboratory confirmation, the Centre for Health Protection (CHP) announced the diagnosis on November 20, 2025, emphasizing the need for comprehensive mosquito control and pre-travel preparation.
The patient experienced classic Chikungunya symptoms, including fever, joint pain, and a rash, in mid-November after returning from Shenzhen, Guangdong province, where he traveled on October 29. He sought treatment at the Accident and Emergency Department of Princess Margaret Hospital on November 19 and was subsequently admitted. Authorities report the individual remains in stable condition and is receiving care in a mosquito-free environment. Due to the travel history, the CHP classified the infection as imported and initiated notification protocols with Guangdong health authorities.
Global Data Highlights Widespread Viral Threat
Chikungunya, a debilitating viral disease spread by mosquitoes, remains a significant global health concern. According to worldwide surveillance data tracked since the start of 2025, over 445,271 suspected and confirmed cases have been reported across 40 countries and territories. Tragically, this outbreak has been associated with 155 fatalities globally, highlighting the potential severity of the illness.
In light of the mounting case count, the CHP consistently urges residents to thoroughly research the health situation of their intended destination before embarking on any international travel. Preventative measures, such as applying insect repellent liberally and wearing protective clothing, are paramount in high-risk areas.
Enhanced Local Monitoring and Vector Control
While the recent case was travel-related, health authorities have been actively addressing concerns about potential local transmission, especially following a recent case involving a resident in Shau Kei Wan. To mitigate community spread, comprehensive monitoring and outreach efforts have been implemented in areas deemed high-risk.
Key Public Health Interventions:
- Community Education: Approximately 3,000 households in affected zones received informative leaflets regarding Chikungunya prevention and symptoms.
- Health Assessment: Assessment stations were established, conducting screenings for over 4,950 individuals to date. Although four individuals presented with symptoms, subsequent testing confirmed they were negative for the virus.
Simultaneously, the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) has significantly ramped up vector control efforts since July. Operations include regular thermal fogging within a 250-meter radius of reported case locations, consistent removal of stagnant water sources—essential breeding grounds for mosquitoes—and intensified public education campaigns on environmental hygiene.
These ongoing vector control measures, combined with proactive monitoring and public education, form the cornerstone of Hong Kong’s strategy to control mosquito-borne diseases and minimize the risk of a widespread local outbreak. Travelers are advised to prioritize personal protection and remain informed regarding updated travel health alerts.