Chikungunya in India

Level 4 - Avoid All Travel
Level 3 - Reconsider Nonessential Travel
Level 2 - Practice Enhanced Precautions
Level 1 - Practice Usual Precautions
Map: States where CDC has identified higher-than-expected numbers of cases in returning travelers (Maharashtra and Telangana)
Map: States where CDC has identified higher-than-expected numbers of cases in returning travelers (see larger map)
What is Chikungunya?

Chikungunya disease is caused by the chikungunya virus and is spread to humans through mosquito bites. Outbreaks have occurred in countries in Africa, Americas, Asia, Europe, the Caribbean, and Indian and Pacific Oceans.

Most people infected with chikungunya virus develop some symptoms. Symptoms of chikungunya usually begin 3–7 days after a bite by an infected mosquito. The most common symptoms are fever and joint pain. Other symptoms may include headache, muscle pain, joint swelling, or rash. Most people get better within a week; however, some can have severe joint pain for months to years following acute illness.

People at risk for more severe disease include newborns infected around the time of birth, older adults (65 years or older), and people with medical conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or heart disease. Death from chikungunya is rare.

There is no specific treatment for chikungunya; however, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommends a vaccine for some travelers.

Key points

  • There is an outbreak of chikungunya in the states of Maharashtra and Telangana, India (see map).
  • Mosquitoes spread the virus that causes chikungunya.
  • You can protect yourself by preventing mosquito bites, which includes using insect repellent; wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants; and staying in places with air conditioning or that have screens on the windows and doors.
  • Vaccination against chikungunya is recommended for people aged 18 years or older who are traveling to a destination with a current chikungunya outbreak.
  • The vaccine should not be given to people with weakened immune systems or who have had a serious allergic reaction to any part of the vaccine. If you are pregnant, reconsider travel to the affected states, particularly if you are close to delivering your baby. Mothers infected around the time of delivery can pass the virus to their baby before or during delivery. Newborns infected in this way or by a mosquito bite are at risk for severe illness, including poor long-term outcomes.
    • In general, vaccination against chikungunya should be deferred until after delivery. However, when the risk of infection is high and exposure cannot be avoided, pregnant travelers should discuss with their healthcare provider the potential risks (to themselves and their babies) of chikungunya virus infection, and the potential benefits and risks of vaccination, so that vaccination can be considered.
    • If pregnant people choose to be vaccinated, out of caution vaccination should generally be avoided during the 1st trimester (until the 14th week of pregnancy) and after the 36th week of pregnancy.
  • Seek medical care if you develop fever, joint pain, headache, muscle pain, joint swelling, or rash, during or after travel.

Traveler Information

Clinician Information