CDC warns about traveling to popular island destination due to outbreak of untreatable virus

The Centers for Disease Control is warning travelers about traveling to a popular tourist destination due to a recent disease outbreak.

The group issued a level 2 health advisory warning people visiting the Seychelles that there is an outbreak of chikungunya, a mosquito-born illness, in the country.

Chikungunya is a virus spread by infected mosquitos. Common symptoms include fever and joint pain, as well as headaches, muscle pain, joint swelling, and a rash.

While there are no known treatment options for chikungunya, death from the virus is rare.

A level 2 advisory means that the CDC is encouraging travelers to “practice enhanced precautions.” The group recommends that anyone heading to the Seychelles get vaccinated for the disease beforehand.

The CDC also recommends preventing mosquito bites 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.

Anyone pregnant should consider avoiding traveling to the area, the CDC said, as mothers can pass chikungunya to their children during delivery, and newborns infected with the disease are at risk for severe illness.

People over age 65 or who have medical conditions such as diabetes or heart disease are more at risk for serious illness as well, the CDC said.

If you develop any of the symptoms of chikungunya, you should seek medical care during or after travel.

The Seychelles is an island republic located in the Indian Ocean near east Africa. It is made up of about 115 islands and is one of the world’s smallest countries. It is home to numerous beaches, coral reefs and nature reserves, as well as rare animals.