US Unites With Cuba, India, China, and UK in the Struggle with Chikungunya Outbreak in 2025: CDC Urges Enhanced Precautions for Travelers Amid Rising Cases
Published on
December 27, 2025
By: Paramita Sarkar
As of late December 2025, Florida in the US has reported a significant surge in Chikungunya fever cases, with 250 infections confirmed so far, primarily among travelers returning from Cuba, where the outbreak has reached alarming levels. India, China, and the UK are also seeing increasing cases, prompting the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to issue a Level 2 Travel Health Notice for Cuba, as well as advising caution for travelers from other affected regions. The outbreak, which has spread rapidly through these regions, has particularly impacted vulnerable groups like pregnant women, elderly adults, and young children.
What Is Happening with Chikungunya in Florida and Other Countries?
According to official data from the Florida Department of Health (FDOH) and the CDC, Chikungunya fever has continued to surge in Florida, with 250 cases reported in 2025. The disease, which is spread by mosquito bites, has been primarily transmitted through travel-associated cases, particularly from Cuba, which is experiencing a major arboviral epidemic. The disease is also affecting travelers returning to India, China, and the United Kingdom, where similar outbreaks have been observed.
Florida Case Breakdown:
- Miami-Dade County: 159 cases, primarily attributed to travel from Cuba.
- Broward County: 23 cases.
- Hillsborough County: 25 cases.
- Other counties, including Lee, Collier, and others, have reported smaller numbers of cases ranging from 1 to 13.
Despite the surge in reported cases, there have been zero locally acquired mosquito-transmitted cases of Chikungunya in Florida. All reported infections are linked to travelers returning from countries where the virus is endemic.
Cuba’s Role in the Florida Chikungunya Outbreak
The majority of Florida’s cases (95.2%) are linked to Cuba, where the outbreak has been intensifying. According to the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), Cuba is currently experiencing one of its most significant arboviral epidemics in years. The outbreak, which began in the western provinces like Matanzas, has spread to Havana, the capital, and beyond. Miami, as a major transit hub for flights between the U.S. and Cuba, has seen an exceptionally high concentration of imported cases. This surge is partly driven by the fact that Cuba is a popular destination for tourists, many of whom are returning to the U.S. with the virus.
CDC Travel Advisory: Level 2 Notice for Cuba
In response to the rising number of Chikungunya cases, the CDC issued a Level 2 Travel Health Notice for Cuba in December 2025. The advisory warns travelers to “practice enhanced precautions” due to the ongoing outbreak. Pregnant women, infants, and elderly adults are specifically identified as high-risk groups, as they are more susceptible to severe disease.
The CDC further advises travelers to use EPA-registered insect repellents, wear long-sleeved shirts and pants, and take steps to avoid mosquito bites, particularly in regions where outbreaks are most active, such as Cuba. Travelers are also encouraged to seek medical care if they develop symptoms such as fever, joint pain, and rash.
What Are the Vaccination Options for Chikungunya?
As of late 2025, Chikungunya is classified as a vaccine-preventable disease in the U.S. Two vaccines were introduced in 2025 to combat the virus, though the status of one of them changed mid-year due to safety concerns.
VIMKUNYA Vaccine (Bavarian Nordic)
- Status: Fully approved and available for individuals aged 12 and older.
- Technology: Non-live, virus-like particle (VLP) vaccine.
- Recommendation: The CDC recommends VIMKUNYA for travelers going to regions with active outbreaks, such as Cuba, at least two weeks before departure.
IXCHIQ Vaccine (Valneva)
- Status: FDA suspended the license for IXCHIQ in August 2025 due to safety concerns, particularly in older populations.
- Impact: Health providers are now directed to prioritize VIMKUNYA for most travelers, as IXCHIQ is no longer recommended.
Why Are Travelers from India, China, and the UK at Risk?
Chikungunya fever is not confined to Florida and Cuba. India, China, and the United Kingdom have also seen rising cases in travelers returning from endemic regions. While India and China have long been familiar with arboviral diseases, the increase in travel to and from Cuba has led to higher numbers of imported cases in these countries.
In India, cases are linked to travelers visiting the Caribbean or returning from Cuba, while in China and the UK, there have been isolated cases associated with international travel. As these outbreaks continue to spread, the CDC has urged increased vigilance in countries with active or emerging cases.
What Should Travelers Do to Protect Themselves?
Given the ongoing outbreaks in Cuba, Florida, and other regions, travelers are advised to:
- Consult a Travel Health Clinic: For those planning to visit affected areas, the CDC recommends visiting a travel health clinic at least two weeks before departure for advice and vaccinations.
- Follow Mosquito Bite Prevention Measures: Travelers should use insect repellent, wear protective clothing, and stay in accommodations with air conditioning or mosquito nets.
- Monitor Health Symptoms: Any traveler who develops symptoms consistent with Chikungunya fever, such as fever and joint pain, should seek medical attention immediately.
- Stay Updated on Health Advisories: Travelers should continue to monitor CDC travel advisories for updates on the Chikungunya outbreak and any changes to vaccination recommendations.
Conclusion: The Global Impact of Chikungunya Fever
The 2025 Chikungunya outbreak has significantly affected regions such as Florida, Cuba, and other countries like India, China, and the United Kingdom. As health authorities work to contain the virus and prevent further spread, vaccination and precautionary measures remain the best defense against this debilitating disease. With the Cuba outbreak showing no signs of slowing, travelers and health officials must remain vigilant, especially as the CDC continues to issue health advisories and guidance for pregnant women, elderly individuals, and those planning international travel.
