China tackles chikungunya virus outbreak with wide range of measures as thousands fall ill
 

An outbreak of the mosquito-borne chikungunya virus is underway in China, with over 7,000 cases reported, primarily in the manufacturing hub of Foshan. In response, authorities have implemented a series of strict measures reminiscent of their COVID-19 pandemic response. These include widespread disinfection, the use of mosquito nets, and even deploying drones to locate and eliminate insect breeding grounds.

The Chinese government has also adopted a "hardline" approach with its citizens. Individuals who fail to clear standing water from their property, which is where mosquitoes breed, face fines of up to 10,000 yuan (US$1,400) and can have their electricity cut off. Infected patients in Foshan are being forced to stay in the hospital for at least a week, a policy that has drawn some criticism given that the virus cannot be transmitted between people. The United States has issued a travel advisory for its citizens visiting Guangdong province, where the outbreak is centered.

Chikungunya is spread by mosquitoes and causes symptoms similar to dengue fever, such as fever and joint pain, which can be particularly dangerous for the young, elderly, and those with pre-existing medical conditions. The current outbreak has been exacerbated by heavy rains and high temperatures. In an effort to control the spread, authorities have also reportedly used methods such as releasing fish that eat mosquito larvae and even larger, predatory mosquitoes to combat the virus-carrying insects.