The city of Foshan, located in Guangdong Province, southern China, is witnessing the largest outbreak of chikungunya virus in the country’s history. More than 7,700 confirmed cases were recorded between July 8 and August 2, 2025, according to local health authorities and the Chinese online encyclopedia.

Despite the large numbers, reports confirm no deaths or severe cases have been recorded so far, with a noticeable decline in infections by late July.

Strict Measures… Echoes of COVID-19:

Authorities have launched an extensive campaign to control the outbreak, including:

  • Drone spraying of pesticides in infected neighborhoods.

  • Door-to-door testing and mandatory blood tests for residents.

  • Tracking medicine purchases to monitor symptoms linked to the virus.

  • Isolation of confirmed cases until negative laboratory results are confirmed.

These strict measures have sparked controversy after a video surfaced showing officials entering a home at night to take a blood sample from a child without the mother’s presence, prompting domestic and international criticism over privacy and individual rights.

Spread Beyond Mainland China:

The outbreak has not been contained within southern China. First imported cases have been recorded in:

  • Hong Kong: A 12-year-old boy infected after returning from Foshan.

  • Taiwan: A woman infected after recent travel to China, announced on August 8.

This regional spread has raised concerns about possible further transmission to neighboring countries, especially with ongoing summer travel and tourism.

What is Chikungunya Virus?:

Chikungunya is a virus transmitted through bites of Aedes mosquitoes (Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus), causing symptoms such as:

  • High fever

  • Severe joint pain

  • Skin rash

Although the virus rarely causes death, joint pain can persist for weeks or even months after infection.

Conclusion:

The chikungunya outbreak in Guangdong is a new test for China’s ability to handle public health crises after the COVID-19 pandemic. While authorities are making significant efforts to control the spread, the biggest challenge lies in balancing public health security with respect for individual rights.

Sources:

  • Time – Chikungunya outbreak in China.

  • The Guardian – Controversy over strict measures.

  • FT – China reuses COVID-19 control tools.

  • Chinese Wikipedia – Official statistics.