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Mosquito-borne Chikungunya virus confirmed in NY: What to know
By
Brittany Kriegstein
Published Oct 15, 2025
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Diy13 via Getty Images
By
Brittany Kriegstein
Published Oct 15, 2025
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A person on Long Island has been infected with the mosquito-borne Chikungunya virus, the first time someone has caught the disease in New York, state health officials said.
Chikungunya disease is most common in tropical and subtropical regions and is rarely fatal, according to the state health department. The virus doesn’t spread from person to person but can cause fever, joint pain and swelling, headaches, muscle pain and rashes.
Officials confirmed the case through lab testing in Nassau County, but said they’re still investigating exactly where the person became infected. The Aedes albopictus mosquito that transmits Chikungunya is present in parts of downstate New York, according to the health department.
The United States has not reported a locally acquired case of Chikungunya since 2019, authorities said. Three additional cases of the disease identified in New York this year all originated in other countries with active Chikungunya infections, and routine mosquito testing conducted by the state health department has not detected the virus in any New York mosquito samples to date.
State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said colder nighttime temperatures will help lower the risk of spread. Still, he urged residents “to take simple precautions to protect themselves and their families from mosquito bites,” such as wearing long clothing outdoors and making sure window screens aren’t torn.
Most people recover from Chikungunya disease within a week, though some may experience lingering joint pain, officials said. Newborns and people over 65 are at higher risk for severe illness, as are those with chronic conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes and heart disease. Symptoms usually start three to seven days after someone is bitten by an infected mosquito.
Other preventative measures include using federally registered insect repellents and removing standing water around homes in flowerpots, buckets and gutters, according to the health department.
Outbreaks of Chikungunya have occurred in Africa, the Americas, Asia and Europe, as well as on islands in the Indian and Pacific oceans, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. There is no medicine for treating Chikungunya, but a vaccine is recommended for some international travelers, the CDC said.
Tagged
Chikungunya virus
Health and Science
long island
nassau county
new york city
new york state
Brittany Kriegstein
Brittany Kriegstein covers all breaking news around New York City, with a focus on crime and gun violence. Got a tip? Email Brittany at [email protected].
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Gothamist is funded by sponsors and member donations
Gothamist is funded by sponsors and member donations
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