Health Alert Issued Due to Chikungunya Risk in Gipuzkoa
Gipuzkoa faces an increased chikungunya transmission risk following a local case detected in Hendaya.
Key Points
- • First autochthonous chikungunya case detected in Hendaya.
- • Health authorities warn of high probability for more cases in Gipuzkoa.
- • Local transmission indicates a pressing risk for the community.
- • Enhanced mosquito control measures are being urged by health officials.
A health alert has been issued in Gipuzkoa following the detection of the first autochthonous case of chikungunya virus in Hendaya. This local case raises concerns about the risk of further transmissions through mosquito bites in the region, as announced by health officials on August 2, 2025. Pello Latasa, head of epidemiological surveillance at the Department of Health, indicated that the conditions are now conducive for additional cases, stressing the importance of vigilance among the community and local authorities.
The patient in Hendaya contracted chikungunya locally, after being bitten by a tiger mosquito. This has triggered a strong response from health authorities, who predict a high probability of more cases arising in the area. In 2023, Euskadi recorded a total of 13 chikungunya cases, highlighting ongoing concerns. Local mayor Kotte Ecenarro initially suggested that the situation was under control, a viewpoint Latasa countered by advocating for increased caution and preparedness for potential future cases.
To mitigate this risk, health officials are urging municipalities in eastern Gipuzkoa to enhance their mosquito control measures. As the health department ramps up monitoring, the emergence of this locally transmitted case underscores the importance of public health interventions in preventing further spread. Latasa noted the significance of the local nature of this transmission, explaining that it likely stemmed from a mosquito that bit an infected individual who had returned from a region with chikungunya cases, subsequently infecting a healthy person nearby.