Bolivia's Chikungunya Outbreak Continues to Prompt Travel Advisories The chikungunya outbreak in Bolivia's Santa Cruz department has seen a slight decline in new cases, according to the Departmental Health Service (SEDES). Epidemiologist Carlos Hurtado reported that the latest epidemiological week recorded 655 confirmed cases, a reduction of about 300 compared to the prior week. This brings the total number of cases in Santa Cruz, the primary epicenter of the outbreak, to 4,283 as of March 9, 2026. Despite the drop, the positivity rate remains high at 51%, meaning over half of those tested are infected with the East/Central/South African genotype of the virus. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 2 Travel Health Notice for Santa Cruz and Cochabamba, urging travelers to take precautions such as using insect repellent, wearing protective clothing, and considering vaccination where available. Bolivia is not the only country experiencing chikungunya cases this year. Global data indicate over 29,000 cases and 85 fatalities have been reported by early March. The main vaccine available in the U.S. and select countries is VIMKUNYA®, a non-live virus-like particle vaccine developed by Bavarian Nordic A/S. Approved by the U.S. FDA in 2025, the vaccine is now accessible at travel clinics and pharmacies. The outbreak highlights ongoing challenges in managing mosquito-borne diseases. While Bolivia's situation shows some improvement, the broader context of the epidemic underscores the need for continued vigilance. Travelers are advised to stay informed about regional health advisories and take preventive measures to reduce the risk of infection.#chikungunya #bolivia #santacruz #cdc #bavarian_nordic
