New York Confirms First Locally Acquired Case Of Chikungunya Virus In 6 Years - Report

In July this year, the World Health Organization (WHO) warned of a global chikungunya virus epidemic. The WHO even called for urgent action to prevent it. Recently, New York confirmed its first locally acquired case of chikungunya virus since 2019. Let’s take a look at it.

What’s Happening: First Case of Chikungunya Confirmed in New York

The first locally acquired case of chikungunya virus has been confirmed by New York State health officials. The case has been identified in Nassau County on Long Island. This signals that mosquitoes capable of transmitting chikungunya virus may now be present in this region. Health officials mentioned that laboratory tests at the department's Wadsworth Center have confirmed that the infected person is a resident of Nassau County. The investigation cites the individual was likely bitten by an infected mosquito. The exact source of exposure has not been traced yet.

Authorities mentioned that three other chikungunya cases were detected in 2025 outside New York City, but those were linked to international travel. Routine mosquito testing conducted by the NYSDOH and the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene did not find any evidence of the virus in local mosquito samples.

Officials cautioned residents to prevent mosquito bites by using EPA-approved repellents, donning long sleeves and pants, clearing standing water near homes, and repairing window screens.

Symptoms of Chikungunya

Chikungunya is a viral disease transmitted to humans by infected mosquitoes. People infected with chikungunya virus develop various symptoms, which usually begin to show in 3–7 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. On this note, let us take a look at some of the most common symptoms of chikungunya virus:

• Sudden high fever
• Severe joint pain
• Muscle ache
• Headache
• Rashes

Expert Tips To Stay Safe

Dr Tushar Tayal, Associate Director, Internal Medicine, CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram, shares tips to stay safe from chikungunya virus:

• Use mosquito repellents and wear full-sleeved clothes.
• Keep surroundings clean and dry; don’t let water stagnate.
• Cover water containers and clear blocked drains regularly.
• Use mosquito nets and window screens.
• Support community efforts for fogging and vector control.

The Final Word

The first locally acquired case of chikungunya virus, since 2019, has been confirmed by New York State health officials. Health officials mentioned that laboratory tests at the department's Wadsworth Center have confirmed that the infected person is a resident of Nassau County. The exact source of exposure has not been traced yet.