First Locally Transmitted Chikungunya Case in US in Six Years Confirmed in New York

New York State Department of Health has confirmed the first locally acquired case of chikungunya in the United States in over six years, marking a significant public health concern. The case was reported in Nassau County on Long Island, where the individual is believed to have contracted the virus after being bitten by an infected mosquito. Chikungunya is a mosquito-borne viral disease characterized by sudden fever, joint pain, muscle pain, headache, rash, and swelling, with most people recovering within a week. However, severe cases can be more dangerous for newborns, elderly individuals, and those with underlying health conditions.

Key Takeaways:

• The first locally transmitted chikungunya case in the US in six years was confirmed in Nassau County, New York, by the New York State Department of Health.
• The individual is believed to have contracted the virus after being bitten by an infected Aedes albopictus mosquito, which is present in parts of downstate New York.
• Chikungunya is a mosquito-borne viral disease that causes symptoms such as fever, joint pain, muscle pain, headache, rash, and swelling, with most people recovering within a week.
• Severe cases can be more dangerous for newborns, elderly individuals, and those with underlying health conditions such as diabetes or heart disease.
• Local transmission occurs when a mosquito bites an infected traveler, becomes infected itself, and then transmits the virus to another person through its bite.
• The risk of widespread transmission in New York remains low, but health officials are urging residents to take precautions to avoid mosquito bites.
• Measures to prevent mosquito bites include using EPA-registered insect repellents, wearing long sleeves and pants, removing standing water around homes, and ensuring window and door screens are intact.
• Chikungunya has been present in tropical and subtropical regions since its discovery in the 1950s, with the last local transmission in the US occurring in 2014.

Statistics:

• There have been no known cases of chikungunya found in New York mosquitoes through routine testing.
• The New York State Department of Health has confirmed three travel-related chikungunya cases in 2025 outside of New York City.
• Over 90% of people recover from chikungunya within a week.
• Severe cases of chikungunya can be more dangerous for vulnerable populations, including newborns, elderly individuals, and those with underlying health conditions.

Sources:

• New York State Department of Health
• Contify.com
• IE Online Media Services Pvt. Ltd.