CDC warns of mosquito-borne chikungunya outbreak in southeast China

U.S. health officials issued a warning to travelers about a mosquito-borne illness being transmitted in parts of southeast China.

U.S. health officials issued a warning to travelers about a mosquito-borne illness being transmitted in parts of southeast China.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said there is an outbreak of chikungunya in Guangdong province. Most cases have been reported in the city of Foshan.

Most people infected with the virus develop fever, joint pain, headache, muscle pain, rash, joint swelling and other symptoms, the CDC said Friday in a travel warning. Symptoms usually begin three to seven days after a person has been bitten by an infected mosquito.

The CDC said most people recover in about a week, and there is no treatment. In some cases, severe joint pain can last for several months to years following acute illness.

Newborns and older adults, as well as people with medical conditions such as heart disease and diabetes, are more prone to severe illness. Death is rare, the CDC said.