More than 7,000 cases of chikungunya, a mosquito-borne virus, have been reported across Guangdong province in China since July, prompting authorities to implement strict measures reminiscent of the Covid-19 pandemic.

The city of Foshan has been hit hardest. Infected patients there are required to stay in hospital beds covered with mosquito nets and can only be discharged after testing negative or completing a week-long isolation.

Chikungunya, spread by the bite of an infected mosquito, causes fever and severe joint pain, which in some cases can persist for months or even years. Although common in South and Southeast Asia and parts of Africa, the virus is rare in China, leading to public concern and confusion.

So far, at least 12 other cities in Guangdong have reported cases, and nearly 3,000 infections were recorded in the past week alone. Hong Kong also confirmed its first case—a 12-year-old boy who had recently traveled to Foshan.

Despite the panic, 95% of cases have been mild, and most patients recover within a week. The virus does not spread from person to person, but rather through mosquitoes that bite infected individuals and then transmit it to others.

To curb the spread, Chinese authorities have launched a range of control measures:

Releasing 5,000 mosquito-eating fish into lakes Using drones to detect stagnant water Fining residents up to 10,000 yuan ($1,400) for failing to eliminate standing water at home Releasing “elephant mosquitoes” that prey on virus-carrying mosquitoes

Travelers showing symptoms such as fever, joint pain, or rashes are being urged to seek immediate medical attention. Meanwhile, the U.S. has issued a travel advisory, urging increased caution for those heading to China.

While some locals have questioned the intensity of the measures, especially comparisons to past pandemic lockdowns, health officials insist they are necessary to prevent a wider outbreak.