The U.S. government is warning individuals who have the Seychelles Islands included in their travel plans. The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a “Level 2” advisory for the Seychelles, advising U.S. travellers to “take enhanced precautions” when visiting the island group due to a viral outbreak.
The health agency has reported that the country is currently experiencing a chikungunya outbreak, transmitted to humans through mosquito bites, specifically Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes. As stated by the Cleveland Clinic, chikungunya (also known as CHIKV) infection occurs when a mosquito infected with the virus bites an individual.
The virus is not spread through bodily contact or saliva, although transmission through blood may be a possibility. Read below to learn more about the US Issues Travel Advisory for Seychelles, check chikungunya precautions, etc.
US Issues Travel Advisory For Seychelles
A tropical retreat famous for its blue waters and white sandy beaches has triggered a health warning. Officials from health organisations in the U.S. have released a travel advisory for the Seychelles following a chikungunya outbreak, a virus carried by mosquitoes. This advisory does not constitute a travel ban to the Seychelles but is merely a recommendation for caution.
The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention in the United States has issued a Level 2 alert for the Seychelles, indicating that travellers should take extra precautions. This alert suggests that individuals should be aware of health risks and take care to reduce them. The alert has been raised due to a surge in chikungunya virus infections.
Seychelles is an archipelago consisting of 115 islands located in the western Indian Ocean, attracting hundreds of thousands of tourists each year. As tourism is a key component of its economy, it is essential to consider health warnings.
What is Chikungunya?
The Chikungunya virus is transmitted through the bites of infected mosquitoes, and it is important to note that the disease is not spread from person to person. After being bitten, most individuals will exhibit symptoms of infection within three to seven days, with typical signs including fever and intense joint pain.
Symptoms & Recovery Status
According to medical experts, the majority of patients tend to recover in about a week; however, the arthritis associated with the virus can be quite severe and may persist for many months in some individuals. Other common symptoms include headaches, muscle aches, fatigue, nausea, and rashes. While deaths are rare, the pain can be debilitating, particularly for older adults, rendering them unable to care for themselves.
CDC Recommendations for Travelers
The CDC recommends that individuals planning to travel should contemplate receiving a chikungunya vaccination prior to their journey. Pregnant women are advised to reassess their travel arrangements. Furthermore, travellers should utilise insect repellents, wear long clothing, including pants, and select accommodations that feature window screens and air conditioning.
Why Seychelles Remains a Popular Destination?
In spite of the advisory, Seychelles continues to attract travellers due to its vibrant coral reefs, pristine white-sand beaches, and the UNESCO-listed Aldabra Atoll, which is one of the largest raised coral atolls globally. The region’s natural allure remains preserved, even as health authorities emphasise the significance of awareness and preparation.
What Travelers Should Be Aware Of?
- The CDC has issued a Level 2 travel advisory for Seychelles due to a chikungunya outbreak.
- Level 2 recommends taking enhanced precautions, although travel is neither restricted nor prohibited.
- Chikungunya is transmitted by infected mosquitoes rather than through direct human contact.
- Symptoms generally manifest within 3 to 7 days and may include fever and severe joint pain.
- Most individuals recover within approximately one week, although some may experience lingering joint discomfort.
- Utilise EPA-approved insect repellent and reapply it as instructed.
- Dress in long sleeves and pants, particularly during times of high mosquito activity.
- Select accommodations that offer air conditioning or window screens to minimise exposure.
- Pregnant travellers are advised to seek guidance from a healthcare professional before making travel arrangements.
