Latvia Confirms Chikungunya Cases Linked to Travel to Seychelles
RIGA, March 2, 2026 – Latvia’s Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (SPKC) has confirmed three cases of Chikungunya virus in individuals who recently traveled to Seychelles, the SPKC announced today.
Chikungunya Cases in Latvia
Two of the confirmed cases involve members of the same family, although the third case is not epidemiologically linked to the others. All three individuals were likely infected during their travels to Seychelles, as they were within the virus’s incubation period during their trips.
Specifically, two cases involved travel from December 20, 2025, to December 31, 2025, and one case involved travel from December 27, 2025, to January 7, 2026.
Global Increase in Chikungunya Cases
The confirmation of these cases comes as part of a broader trend of increased Chikungunya infections linked to travel from Seychelles. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) reported that, as of February 27, 2026, over 70 travel-related Chikungunya cases among travelers returning from Seychelles have been identified in 10 European countries since November 2025. This marks a significant increase compared to earlier months in 2025, indicating ongoing transmission of the virus within Seychelles. Prior to 2025, no Seychelles-linked cases had been reported.
Understanding Chikungunya Virus
Chikungunya virus is primarily transmitted to humans through the bites of infected Aedes mosquitoes. The virus is commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions around the world, according to the World Health Organization.
Symptoms and Recovery
Typical symptoms of Chikungunya virus infection include:
- High fever
- Severe joint pain
- Rash
- Muscle pain
- Headache
- Nausea
- Fatigue
While most patients recover fully, joint pain can persist for weeks, months, or even years in some cases.
SPKC Monitoring and Recommendations
The SPKC continues to monitor the situation closely and advises travelers to Seychelles to take precautions against mosquito bites, including using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants, and staying in accommodations with mosquito netting.