*SBMAA Travel Advisory: Chikungunya in Colombo* Mumineen traveling to Colombo for Ashara 1447 are advised to exercise enhanced precautions due to a chikungunya outbreak. This mosquito-borne illness causes fever and severe joint pain. Recommendations: * Consult your doctor about available chikungunya vaccines. * Use mosquito repellent, wear long sleeves/pants, and stay in screened or air-conditioned spaces. * Seek medical care if you develop symptoms such as fever, joint pain, or rash. With proper precautions, mumineen can safely attend Ashara and benefit from this azeem barakat. More details follow: As of June 2025, Sri Lanka is experiencing a significant outbreak of chikungunya, a mosquito-borne viral illness. The Colombo and Kotte regions have reported a notable increase in cases. In accordance with World Health Organization (WHO) and U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidance, Saifee Burhani Medical Association America advises mumineen to obtain vaccinations as soon as possible in advance of their arrival in Colombo. . *Transmission:* - Chikungunya is transmitted through the bites of infected mosquitoes. These mosquitoes are most active during the early morning and late afternoon. The disease is not spread directly from person to person—only through mosquito bites. Eliminating mosquito breeding sites is the most effective way to control the outbreak. *Symptoms:* - Common symptoms include: * Sudden high fever * Severe joint pain (lasting at least one month) * Muscle aches * Headache * Nausea * Fatigue * Skin rashes While most patients recover within a week, joint pain can persist for months or even years, particularly among older individuals. If you experience symptoms consistent with chikungunya, *seek medical attention* promptly. *Prevention Measures:* - Travelers are advised to take the following precautions: * Use insect repellent containing 20%-30% DEET or 20% Picaridin on exposed skin. * Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants. * Stay in accommodations with air conditioning or screens on windows and doors. * Apply sunscreen first, followed by insect repellent. * Wear neutral-colored (beige, light gray) clothing. * Pre-soak or spray outer layer clothing and gear with permethrin. *Vaccination:* - Two chikungunya vaccines have been approved for use in the United States and the European Union as of May 2025. Travelers are encouraged to consult with healthcare providers to see if they qualify for vaccination. Note that vaccines may not be readily available, and you may need to start planning immediately. Contact a local travel clinic for more information. Mumineen collectively give sajadaat us shukr for the ability to attend Mola's TUS Ashara Waaz. By taking appropriate precautions, travelers can reduce their risk of infection and safely partake in this azeem barakat.