Mosquitoes can spread several illnesses, including dengue, yellow fever, chikungunya and Zika. AP
Canada raised its travel alert for China after health officials warned about a growing chikungunya risk. The update appears on the federal travel advisory site and highlights increased concern in Guangdong province. The notice places the risk at Level 2 and urges travellers to follow stronger health precautions.
What Travellers Should Know
Chikungunya spreads through mosquito bites. The virus often brings fever, rashes and sharp joint pain. Many people also feel tired, achy or sick to their stomach. The advisory says symptoms may look similar to other infections, and only tests can confirm the illness.
Officials tell travellers to protect themselves at all hours. Mosquitoes that carry the virus bite both day and night. The notice recommends insect repellent, long clothing in light colours, and mosquito netting when rooms have gaps or poor sealing.
Canada already approved a chikungunya vaccine. Travellers should talk with a health-care provider before leaving, especially if they are pregnant or over 65.
Advice for Returning Travellers
People coming home from China should pay close attention to their health. Anyone who starts feeling sick during or after a trip should seek medical care right away. Early symptoms often appear suddenly and can last for days or even weeks.
A Wider Spread of Mosquito Illnesses
China is not alone in facing a rise in mosquito-borne diseases. Cuba recently dealt with a surge of dengue and chikungunya that affected a large share of its population and left workplaces struggling with widespread illness.
Canada also saw confirmed human cases of West Nile virus this summer in Windsor-Essex, Hamilton and Ottawa. Health officials continue to watch mosquito activity across the country.
The World Health Organization issued a warning in July about the growing threat of chikungunya worldwide. New outbreaks tied to the Indian Ocean region have reached areas of Europe and the Americas. The group urged countries to act quickly to avoid another global wave like the one that spread nearly 20 years ago.
