US Issues Urgent Advisory For Cuba, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, China, Citing Increased Chikungunya Risk and Recommending Enhanced Travel Measures

Published on December 10, 2025

Due to a higher risk of Chikungunya virus outbreaks, the US has issued an urgent travel advisory for Cuba, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Guangdong Province, China. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has advised travelers who intend to visit these areas to take extra precautions because the disease is still spreading. The advisory draws attention to the increasing number of confirmed cases and stresses the need for travelers to take precautions to lower their risk of contracting the virus while traveling, such as applying repellent and avoiding areas with high mosquito activity.

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued an important travel advisory, urging American travelers to exercise heightened caution when visiting tropical regions affected by the Chikungunya virus. The advisory, which applies to several popular destinations such as Cuba, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Guangdong Province in southern China, has been issued at Level 2, advising travelers to “practice enhanced precautions.”

Chikungunya is a mosquito-borne virus that is primarily transmitted by two species of mosquitoes, Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus. Although there is no specific treatment for the disease, it is preventable through vaccination and the use of mosquito repellents. As Chikungunya outbreaks have been reported in various countries, the CDC’s advisory highlights the need for travelers to be aware of the symptoms, which include fever, joint pain, and swelling, along with additional discomforts such as headache, muscle pain, and a rash.

Understanding the Chikungunya Virus

Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is known for causing debilitating joint pain, which can last for weeks or, in some cases, months. While most individuals recover within a few days to a week, severe cases can result in long-term joint pain or complications, leading to hospitalization. In rare instances, the virus can lead to organ damage or even death, especially in individuals with weakened immune systems.

Symptoms typically appear within 3 to 7 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. While Chikungunya does not currently have any specific antiviral treatments, its symptoms can be managed with supportive care. The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported a significant increase in cases, with nearly 445,000 suspected or confirmed cases and 155 related deaths globally from January to September 2025.

The CDC has specifically identified Cuba, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Guangdong Province as areas with significant outbreaks. For example, Bangladesh saw over 700 suspected cases in its capital city, Dhaka, while Guangdong Province in China reported over 16,000 confirmed cases of locally transmitted Chikungunya by late September. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka experienced a peak in cases earlier in 2025, with 150 confirmed infections between January and March.

Increased Risk in Other Tropical Destinations

Apart from the locations currently facing active outbreaks, the CDC has also warned that other tropical destinations, such as Brazil, Colombia, India, Mexico, Nigeria, Pakistan, the Philippines, and Thailand, may still pose a risk to travelers, even if no active outbreaks are reported. The virus remains a threat in these regions due to the prevalence of the mosquito species that transmit it.

Though the US has not seen any locally acquired cases of Chikungunya since 2019, the virus remains a significant concern for travelers heading to regions where outbreaks have occurred or are ongoing. The recent increase in global travel also contributes to the spread of the disease, making it essential for travelers to stay informed and prepared.

Precautions to Prevent Chikungunya Infection

While there is no cure for Chikungunya, there are several effective precautions travelers can take to reduce the risk of infection. The most important of these is preventing mosquito bites, which is crucial for avoiding the virus.

1. Use Mosquito Repellent:
Travelers are advised to apply insect repellents that contain DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus to exposed skin and clothing. These repellents are known to be effective in keeping mosquitoes at bay and can provide protection for several hours.

2. Wear Protective Clothing:
Wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, socks, and shoes can help minimize skin exposure to mosquitoes. Additionally, wearing light-colored clothing may make it easier to spot mosquitoes and reduce the attraction to dark clothing, which is more likely to attract mosquitoes.

3. Stay in Air-Conditioned or Well-Screened Rooms:
Whenever possible, travelers should stay in accommodations that are equipped with air conditioning or properly screened windows and doors. This helps keep mosquitoes out of sleeping areas. If air conditioning is not available, using a mosquito net around the bed can provide added protection during the night when mosquitoes are most active.

4. Avoid Outdoor Activities During Peak Mosquito Activity:
Mosquitoes that carry the Chikungunya virus are most active during early morning and late afternoon. Travelers are advised to avoid outdoor activities during these peak hours to reduce the risk of mosquito bites.

5. Seek Vaccination Where Available:
Although a vaccine for Chikungunya is not yet widely available, travelers should check with their healthcare providers for the latest recommendations. In regions where vaccination options are available, getting vaccinated can provide a vital layer of protection.

6. Stay Informed About Local Outbreaks:
Before traveling, it is recommended to check the latest travel advisories from the CDC and the World Health Organization (WHO). This will help travelers stay updated on the current situation in their destination and take necessary precautions.

7. Practice Good Hygiene:
Frequent handwashing and maintaining proper hygiene can help avoid secondary infections if a traveler does contract Chikungunya or other mosquito-borne diseases.

As Chikungunya continues to pose a risk in several tropical destinations, US health officials are urging travelers to stay vigilant and take necessary precautions. The CDC’s Level 2 advisory for Cuba, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Guangdong Province serves as a reminder to all travelers that preventive measures are the best way to avoid contracting the virus. By following simple steps such as using mosquito repellent, wearing protective clothing, and staying in well-screened accommodations, travelers can greatly reduce their chances of being bitten and contracting the disease.

The US has issued an urgent travel advisory for Cuba, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Guangdong Province in China due to increased Chikungunya outbreaks. The CDC recommends enhanced precautions to protect travelers from the growing risk of infection.

With no cure currently available, prevention is paramount. Travelers should remain informed, practice caution, and consider vaccination when appropriate to safeguard their health while exploring tropical destinations. As always, staying aware of the risks and taking proactive steps will ensure a safer, more enjoyable journey.