Argentina: A sharp rise in chikungunya activity has been reported since February. Around 750 new locally acquired cases have been confirmed, with more than 5’500 suspected cases nationwide through week 14, marking a significant increase above average levels. Most cases are concentrated in the northwestern provinces of Salta, Tucumán, and Jujuy.
French Guiana: Since the first case of chikungunya was detected in late January 2026, 85 locally acquired cases have been reported (+20 cases within the past four weeks).
Suriname: Between 1 January and mid-March, 2’579 chikungunya virus disease cases have been reported of which 1’354 were confirmed. Since January 2026, one EU Member State also observed a marked increase in detections of chikungunya virus among returning travelers from Suriname and Paramaribo in particular.
Suriname is classified as countries experiencing a chikungunya outbreak; for Argentina and French Guiana, elevated transmission should be assumed.
Optimal mosquito protection 24/7, also in cities, this also protects you against other mosquito-borne diseases.
Vaccination against chikungunya is recommended for stays in Suriname, it can be considered for Argentina and French Guiana. Vaccination against chikungunya is not licensed in Switzerland. For vaccination recommendations, see ECTM statement.
In case of fever:
- Get tested to rule out malaria.
- Ensure adequate hydration and apply paracetamol products.