The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has issued an epidemiological alert following a sustained increase in chikungunya cases across several countries in the Americas since late 2025. The alert also notes the re-emergence of local transmission in areas that had been free of the virus for several years. Environmental factors, such as extreme temperatures, continue to favor mosquito breeding, while the circulation of both the Asian and East, Central, and South African (ECSA) genotypes underscores the need for vigilant surveillance and timely responses.
PAHO emphasizes that health workers and governments should be prepared for potential outbreaks and plan public information campaigns to raise awareness. Key recommendations include strengthening epidemiological and laboratory surveillance to detect cases early, ensuring proper clinical management for vulnerable groups such as pregnant women, infants, older adults, and people with underlying health conditions, and intensifying integrated vector control measures to eliminate mosquito breeding sites.
Chikungunya is transmitted primarily by Aedes aegypti mosquitoes and causes high fever, severe joint pain, muscle pain, headache, fatigue, nausea, and rash. In many cases, joint pain can persist for weeks to months. There is no specific antiviral treatment, and management focuses on alleviating symptoms with analgesics and antipyretics. High-risk patients require careful monitoring to prevent severe complications and fatalities.
Globally, 502,264 chikungunya cases were reported between January 1 and December 10, 2025, including 186 deaths. In the Americas, 313,132 cases occurred, with 113,926 confirmed and 170 deaths across 18 countries and one territory. Although overall cases in the region declined compared to 2024, certain countries in South America and the Caribbean reported increases, and previously virus-free areas, such as Guyana, French Guiana, and Suriname, have seen a resurgence of transmission.
Genomic analysis indicates circulation of the ECSA genotype in the Americas, without the A226V mutation that increases transmissibility via Aedes albopictus. The virus’ persistence in endemic areas and its reappearance in previously cleared regions highlight the ongoing need for integrated surveillance, preventive measures, and community engagement.
PAHO advises healthcare personnel to include chikungunya in differential diagnoses for fever and rash alongside other arboviruses and measles. Vector control efforts should focus on eliminating breeding sites near health facilities and communities. The public is encouraged to use repellents, protective clothing, bed nets, and participate in mosquito control measures at home and in communal areas. These measures align with existing PAHO guidelines for the clinical management and prevention of dengue, chikungunya, and Zika.
PAHO will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide technical support to countries to strengthen surveillance, patient care, and vector management, aiming to reduce the health impact of chikungunya in the Americas.
