Summary of Key Points
In June, the number of new COVID-19 cases increased by nearly three times compared to the previous month. However, disease control experts state that COVID-19 has become a common respiratory infectious disease and is currently at a low prevalence level, so there is no need for excessive panic. Instead, more attention should be paid to mosquito-borne infections such as dengue fever and chikungunya fever. These diseases pose greater risks due to global spread, climate change which expands the range of mosquito habitats, increased cross-border travel, and the potential for further transmission during summer vacations. The government has classified chikungunya fever as a Class B infectious disease and introduced new prevention and control measures.
1. New COVID-19 Cases Are Up, but No Need to Panic: It's Just a Normal Fluctuation
Although the number of new COVID-19 cases in June rose by 79,000, nearly tripling that of May, experts describe this as a "normal fluctuation." There are three reasons for this:
1. COVID-19 has become as common as the flu and is now a regular respiratory infectious disease, so occasional fluctuations are expected.
2. From October 2025 to the present, the virus has been in an "interepidemic period" (a phase of low activity) for eight and a half months. After a surge in late May, cases returned to a low prevalence level in mid-June.
3. The dominant variant is still NB.1.8.1, with no new dangerous mutations detected. Therefore, while proper precautions should be taken, there is no need for widespread panic.
2. Mosquito-Borne Infections Are More Dangerous: What Are the Threats of Dengue Fever and Chikungunya Fever?
Both diseases are transmitted by the Aedes albopictus mosquito, and their symptoms can be quite severe. Dengue fever causes persistent high fevers, and in some cases, it can progress to severe bleeding disorders; chikungunya fever is characterized by intense joint pain, especially in the wrists and ankles, which can last for weeks or even months. Why are these infections more dangerous now?
- Global Spread: Many tropical and subtropical countries are experiencing outbreaks, and climate change is allowing the mosquito to thrive in more areas.
- Risk of Importation: Travel between countries has increased, making it easier for viruses to be introduced.
- Summer Conditions: High temperatures and heavy rainfall promote rapid mosquito reproduction, leading to peak populations throughout the year.
- Summer Tourism: Increased travel across regions and borders facilitates the spread of viruses.
3. Guangdong Has Issued a Warning: The Risk of Mosquito-Borne Infections Is Close at Hand
Guangdong has specifically warned that the current season, with its monsoon rains and typhoons, creates ideal conditions for mosquito activity, increasing the risk of dengue fever and chikungunya fever. Data shows that 50 cases of dengue fever and 36 cases of chikungunya fever were reported in June, indicating that these diseases are no longer far-off threats.
4. What Is the Government Doing to Prevent These Infections?
The government has taken the following steps:
- Starting April 1, 2026, chikungunya fever has been classified as a Class B infectious disease, requiring stricter prevention and control measures.
- A new "Dengue Fever and Chikungunya Fever Prevention and Control Plan (2026 Edition)" has been released, emphasizing the need to monitor, test, and control both diseases simultaneously.
- Import cases must be promptly identified and controlled, and local outbreaks must be addressed with early detection, limited containment areas, strict measures, and thorough implementation to prevent the spread of the disease.
In summary, while there is no need for excessive concern about COVID-19, special attention should be paid to mosquito prevention during the summer, especially when traveling to southern regions or abroad. Take appropriate precautions such as using mosquito repellent and wearing long sleeves. If you experience high fever or joint pain, seek medical attention immediately.