The Seychelles, an Indian Ocean archipelago known for its exclusive resorts and natural beauty, is experiencing a chikungunya outbreak, prompting the CDC to advise travelers to take enhanced precautions. “There is an outbreak of chikungunya in Seychelles,” the alert states. “You can protect yourself by preventing mosquito bites.”

Chikungunya is spread by infected mosquitoes and typically causes fever and joint pain three to seven days after exposure. Additional symptoms can include headache, muscle pain, joint swelling, and rash. While most recover within a week, some individuals may experience severe joint pain for months or even years. Death from the virus is rare, according to the CDC.

The CDC recommends travelers get the chikungunya vaccine if available and take steps to avoid mosquito bites. Precautionary measures include using insect repellent, wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants, and staying in accommodations with air conditioning or window and door screens.

Last December, the CDC issued similar Level 2 advisories for Cuba, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Guangdong Province in southern China, advising Americans to “practice enhanced precautions.”

The Seychelles consists of about 115 islands off the coast of East Africa, attracting 354,034 visitors between January and November last year. The islands are home to unique natural landmarks, including Vallée de Mai, one of the world’s smallest natural UNESCO World Heritage sites, and Aldabra, one of the largest raised coral atolls globally.

Travelers to the islands are encouraged to remain vigilant, particularly in areas with dense vegetation where mosquitoes are prevalent