Authorities in Réunion Island have issued a health alert following a significant increase in chikungunya virus cases. Over 4,000 new infections were reported in just one week, prompting concerns about the ongoing epidemic on the French overseas territory.
According to a joint statement from the island’s police prefecture and the regional health agency ARS, the chikungunya epidemic is now widespread across Réunion and continues to spread. Between March 10 and March 16, a total of 4,156 new cases were recorded, marking an increase of more than 600 cases compared to the previous week.
The statement also noted that there have been 15 serious cases reported to date, including eight adults and seven newborns. Since the epidemic’s onset in August 2024, there have been 13,594 confirmed cases on the island. Authorities also confirmed two deaths related to the outbreak last week.
Chikungunya is transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, which is also responsible for spreading dengue fever and Zika virus. While the disease is generally not fatal, it can pose significant health risks, particularly for older individuals and those with underlying health conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and cardiovascular diseases.
The name “chikungunya” is derived from the Kimakonde language of southern Tanzania, meaning “that which bends up,” a reference to the characteristic joint pain associated with the disease.
Health officials have warned that the transmission of the virus is likely to remain high in the coming weeks, urging residents to take precautions against mosquito bites.
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