[First Cuba Travel-Associated Chikungunya Case in Northern Cyprus]

Due to increasing international travel, the rise in Chikungunya infections in non-endemic countries is notable. Chikungunya virus (CHIKV), transmitted by Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes, is a significant public health problem characterized by fever, rash, myalgia and severe arthralgia. Cyprus, located in the Mediterranean basin, is a transit point between Europe, Asia, and Africa and Aedes species have been reported in the southern part of the island. Despite this, no cases of Chikungunya have been reported in Northern Cyprus to date. In this report, the first travel-associated case of Chikungunya reported in Northern Cyprus was presented. A 48-year-old male patient admitted to our hospital with the complaints of fever, malaise, widespread rash, headache and severe musculoskeletal pain following a trip to Cuba. Based on clinical and epidemiological findings, dengue fever, Zika, West Nile and Chikungunya infections were considered as preliminary diagnoses. Serum samples showed IgM and IgG antibodies specific for Chikungunya virus. Serological and molecular tests for other arboviruses were negative. The patient was followed up with symptomatic treatment. Improvement was noticed on the 10th day and joint pain and rheumatological complaints completely resolved after three months. This case demonstrates that travel-related Chikungunya cases in Cyprus may pose a public health threat. Early diagnosis, effective surveillance, vector control measures and public awareness are crucial for preventing potential outbreaks.