N.Y. Woman Tests Positive for Debilitating Mosquito-Borne Illness that Sickened Thousands in China

Following a significant chikungunya virus outbreak in China, U.S. health authorities are examining a potential locally acquired case in New York.

A 60-year-old woman in Nassau County, Long Island, tested positive for the virus during a preliminary screening this month, according to the New York Times and CBS News.

The woman, who chose to remain anonymous due to privacy concerns, told the Times that she had not traveled outside her town prior to falling ill. She began experiencing symptoms, including severe joint pain, on Aug. 21.

Describing her condition, she said it felt as if her feet, ankles, knees, wrists, hands, and shoulders were on fire, with her joints being pulled apart.

The New York State Department of Health is collaborating with local officials to confirm the woman’s test results.

“The New York State Department of Health is investigating a possible locally acquired case of chikungunya virus,” a spokesperson said in a statement to the Times. “No locally acquired cases have ever been reported in New York State, and the risk to the public remains very low.”

Locally acquired chikungunya cases have not been documented in the U.S. since 2019. The CDC recommends preventive measures such as using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants, and staying in air-conditioned spaces or places with window and door screens to avoid mosquito bites.

The chikungunya virus, transmitted by mosquitoes, can cause fever and intense joint pain, according to the World Health Organization. Additional symptoms may include headache, muscle pain, joint swelling, or rash, typically appearing three to seven days after an infected mosquito bite.

There is no specific treatment for the virus, though vaccines are available and advised for travelers heading to outbreak regions.

This potential case follows a major outbreak in China, where more than 7,000 people had contracted chikungunya as of Aug. 6.

On Aug. 1, the CDC issued a Level 2 travel notice urging travelers to “practice enhanced precautions” when visiting China. Similar travel notices have been issued for outbreaks in Bolivia, Kenya, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mayotte, Réunion, Somalia, and Sri Lanka.