Hong Kong reports 2 new imported dengue cases; global cases decline
Hong Kong reported two new imported dengue cases from India and Bangladesh, bringing 2026's total to 36. Global dengue cases fell to about 2.5 million in January-September 2026 from over 5 million in 2025. No new chikungunya cases were recorded.
Hong Kong's Centre for Health Protection reported two new imported dengue fever cases between 16 and 22 October, according to a government press release on 23 October. Both patients had travelled to India and Bangladesh during the incubation period.
This brings the city's 2026 total to 36 dengue cases, comprising 34 imported and two local infections. In comparison, 2025 recorded 59 imported cases, while 2024 saw 161 cases, including 156 imported and five local ones.
Globally, the World Health Organization (WHO) recorded over 14 million dengue cases in 2024, a historic high. In 2025, more than 90 countries reported over 5 million cases and over 4,000 deaths. Between January and September 2026, about 2.5 million cases and over 1,500 deaths were reported worldwide.
Neighbouring countries continue to see high numbers: Bangladesh, Cambodia, Sri Lanka and Vietnam each recorded over 100,000 cases in 2026; Indonesia over 80,000; India and Malaysia over 70,000; and Singapore over 2,700. Guangdong province recorded 586 cases as of September, with 155 in September alone, according to the Guangdong Provincial Centre for Disease Control and Prevention.
For chikungunya, no new cases were recorded from 16 to 22 October. Hong Kong's 2026 total stands at seven confirmed cases, including six imported and one local. In 2025, 82 cases were recorded, of which 11 were local. Globally, 41 countries reported 502,264 chikungunya cases and 186 deaths in 2025. Guangdong recorded 1,753 cases as of September 2026, with 1,014 in September alone, a sharp increase from 171 to 496 in July and August.
The Centre for Health Protection urged residents to maintain environmental hygiene and use insect repellent containing DEET or other active ingredients. The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department advised clearing stagnant water, changing vase water weekly, and keeping drains clear. Residents can report mosquito infestations by calling 1823.