Escalating Crisis: Over 4,000 New Cases Weekly

The chikungunya epidemic on Réunion Island is rapidly worsening,with over 4,000 new cases reported each week. This surge has prompted regional health officials to consider ordering an additional 50,000 vaccine doses, following an initial allocation of 40,000.

“Generalized Throughout the Territory”: Health Agency Alarmed

The Regional health Agency (ARS) has expressed serious concern over the widespread nature of the outbreak. Gérard Coollon, Managing Director of ARS, stated that the actual number of cases could be significantly higher than reported, possibly three or four times more. This suggests a significant underreporting of the disease’s prevalence across the island.

“Generalized throughout the territory”

Gérard Coollon,Managing Director of ARS

Rising infections and Tragic Fatalities

Since the epidemic’s onset in August 2024,Réunion Island has recorded approximately 15,000 chikungunya cases as of March 31. Health authorities recently confirmed the first two fatalities linked to the disease, affecting individuals aged 86 and 96, one of whom had pre-existing health conditions. There have also been reports of infants requiring hospitalization due to the severity of their infections. The situation is further complex by the fact that chikungunya is transmitted by the Aedes albopictus mosquito, commonly known as the tiger mosquito, which is prevalent in the region.

Peak Expected Mid-April: Urgent Measures Needed

According to Gérard Coollon, the chikungunya epidemic is projected to peak in mid-April. This alarming forecast underscores the urgent need for intensified public health interventions, including enhanced mosquito control measures, widespread vaccination campaigns, and improved clinical management of infected individuals. The potential surge in cases could overwhelm the island’s healthcare system, necessitating a coordinated response from both local and international health organizations.

Global Context: Chikungunya’s Growing Threat

The chikungunya virus, first identified in Tanzania in 1952, has spread globally in recent decades. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), chikungunya outbreaks have been reported in Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas. The increasing frequency and geographical expansion of these outbreaks highlight the growing threat posed by this mosquito-borne disease. Factors contributing to this spread include climate change, urbanization, and increased international travel.

Réunion Island Launches Vaccination Campaign Against Chikungunya

In response to a growing Chikungunya outbreak, Réunion Island is initiating a comprehensive vaccination campaign. Health authorities are prioritizing vulnerable populations, including seniors and individuals with pre-existing health conditions, to mitigate the impact of the viral disease.

Initial Vaccine Supply and distribution Strategy

The Franco-Austrian pharmaceutical company Valneva is providing an initial batch of 40,000 doses of it’s IXCHIQ vaccine. Vaccination could start at the start of next week with the assistance of general practitioners, because it is a vaccination on prescription, according to Gérard Coollon. This initial supply will be administered under the guidance of general practitioners, ensuring targeted and efficient distribution.

Following this initial rollout, the Regional Health agency (ARS) of Réunion is preparing to order an additional 50,000 doses of the IXCHIQ vaccine, expected to arrive on the island in approximately three weeks. This proactive measure aims to ensure a sustained supply of the vaccine to meet the ongoing needs of the population.

Financial Investment in Combating the Epidemic

The ARS of Réunion has allocated five million euros to bolster its response to the Chikungunya outbreak. This meaningful investment will fund critical resources, including:

• Recruitment of temporary healthcare workers
• Rental of vehicles for logistical support
• Procurement of individual protective equipment (PPE) for healthcare personnel
• Acquisition of demoustification equipment to control mosquito populations

These measures are designed to strengthen the island’s capacity to manage the epidemic effectively and protect its residents.

Prioritizing Vulnerable Populations for Vaccination

The High Authority of Health has issued recommendations to prioritize vaccination for specific groups at higher risk of severe Chikungunya complications. These include:

• Seniors over the age of 65
• Adults with comorbidities such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases
• Anti-mosquito workers who are frequently exposed to mosquito bites

By focusing on these vulnerable populations, health authorities aim to minimize the potential for serious illness and reduce the overall burden on the healthcare system.

Chikungunya in mayotte: Increased Vigilance and Preventive Measures

In Mayotte,another French island in the Indian Ocean,health authorities have reported four cases of Chikungunya,including one indigenous case. In response, ARS Mayotte has activated level 2A of the Orsec plan, signaling heightened vigilance and proactive measures to prevent further spread of the virus.

These measures include increased monitoring of the epidemiological situation, and measures to prevent more active viral circulation in the territory. The island’s vulnerability, exacerbated by poverty and densely populated living conditions, necessitates a robust and coordinated response to contain the outbreak.

Context: Learning from Past Epidemics

While the current outbreak is a cause for concern, its impact is not expected to reach the scale of the 2005-2006 epidemic, which affected approximately 260,000 people and resulted in 225 deaths. However,vigilance and proactive measures remain crucial to prevent a similar crisis.

Chikungunya is generally considered a benign viral disease, but it can cause debilitating joint pain and other symptoms that can significantly impact quality of life. Vaccination and mosquito control efforts are essential tools in mitigating the spread of the virus and protecting public health.

A Public health Emergency Unfolds

Réunion, a French island in the Indian Ocean, is grappling with a concerning resurgence of chikungunya fever. After a period of relative dormancy as 2010, the island is now facing a new wave of infections, prompting urgent action from both local and national authorities.

Government Response and Intervention

Recognizing the severity of the situation, Minister of overseas Territories, Manuel valls, addressed the National Assembly, acknowledging the outbreak’s potential to reach epidemic levels. He emphasized the need for immediate vigilance and proactive measures.Valls also announced plans for a visit to Réunion in early April, signaling the government’s commitment to addressing the crisis firsthand.

We arrive at an epidemic level which calls for vigilance and action. The most delicate weeks are those that happen.
Minister of Overseas Territories, manuel valls, addressing the National Assembly

Understanding Chikungunya: Symptoms and Risks

Chikungunya is a viral disease transmitted to humans through mosquito bites. While generally considered a non-fatal illness, it can cause significant discomfort and, in some cases, serious complications. The hallmark symptoms include a sudden onset of fever accompanied by intense pain in the muscles and joints. While most patients recover within a week, some individuals may experience persistent symptoms lasting for months.

Although rare, Chikungunya can lead to neurological, muscular, and cardiovascular complications. In vulnerable populations, such as the elderly or those with pre-existing conditions, the disease can even be fatal. the potential for long-term health consequences underscores the importance of prevention and prompt medical attention.

Prevention and Control Strategies

Given the absence of a specific cure for Chikungunya, prevention remains the most effective strategy. Public health campaigns are crucial to educate the population about mosquito bite prevention measures, such as using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants, and eliminating mosquito breeding sites around homes and communities. These measures are essential to curb the spread of the virus and protect vulnerable populations.