CDC issues health alert after virus outbreak hits popular honeymoon destination

A health advisory has been issued for a group of islands famous for their white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters and granite rock formations.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is urging travelers to Seychelles to practice enhanced precautions after a chikungunya outbreak was confirmed earlier this month.

Spread by mosquitoes, the virus causes fever, severe joint pain, headache, rashes and fatigue with symptoms usually showing up three to seven days after a bite.

“Some can have severe joint pain for months to years following acute illness,” the CDC said. “Death from chikungunya is rare.”

Chikungunya outbreaks have occurred in countries in Africa, Americas, Asia, Europe, the Caribbean, and Indian and Pacific Oceans.

Travelers can protect themselves by using insect repellent, wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants, and staying in places with air conditioning or that have screens on the windows and doors.

Vaccination is recommended for travelers who are visiting an area with a chikungunya outbreak, such as Seychelles.

The Seychelles consists of about 115 islands off the coast of East Africa. The islands are home to exotic wildlife like the giant Aldabra tortoises and Seychelles black parrot, as well as UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Aldabra Atoll and Vallée de Mai.

About 354,034 travelers visited the islands from January to November of 2025, according to government data, mostly for tourism, fishing, snorkeling, diving and relaxation on its world-famous beaches.