Canada has just issued an urgent travel advisory for people heading to China due to a potentially dangerous virus. While a traveller’s chance of contracting the disease varies greatly depending on the season and region, among other factors, it is important that they stay informed about the risks.
Canada Travel Advisory For China
As of November 18, 2025, the government has noted that a number of destinations are reporting higher than expected numbers of chikungunya cases. This includes China, as well as some other travel destinations like Cuba and Bangladesh.
Chikungunya is a disease that is spread from the bite of an infected mosquito. It causes fever, rash, fatigue, headache, nausea, vomiting, and joint pain. Although most people recover after a few days, there are cases where the joint pain can persist for months to years.
Those that are pregnant are especially vulnerable as the disease can be passed to the baby. And although rare, more serious problems can result from chikungunya, such as stillbirth or premature birth. Newborns, infants younger than one year, older adults, and those with underlying health conditions are at risk of becoming severely ill.
Taking Caution In Canada And Abroad
As of now, Canadian travellers are asked to exercise a high degree of caution while in China. The government recommends that travellers talk to a health care provider or visit a travel health clinic at least 6 weeks before their departure date to get personalized health advice. Here’s a few pre-travel things that are encouraged to get done:
- Get the vaccine to prevent chikungunya, which is approved in Canada.
- Discuss the risks and benefits of the vaccination with your health care provider. This includes factors like age and existing health conditions, as well as your travel itinerary.
- Pregnant women and travellers aged 65 and older should discuss the possible risks of travelling to areas with chikungaya outbreaks with their health care provider.
- Sign up with the Registration of Canadians Abroad Service to stay connected with Canada in case of an emergency.
While you’re in China, here’s a few things you can do to prevent mosquito bites at all times:
- Use an approved bug spray (insect repellent) on exposed skin.
- Wear light-coloured, loose clothing made of tightly woven materials like nylon or polyester.
- Wear socks and closed-toed shoes.
- Sleep under mosquito netting if you’re outdoors or staying in places that aren’t fully enclosed.
For more information, check out the Canada travel advisory page for Canada here.
