The reach of Aedes albopictus mosquitoes across France is expanding, with the species now detected in 64 departments. The most recent incursion has been in Loiret, in the Centre-Val de Loire region where the species was first identified in 2017 (in Indre, followed by Cher and Indre-et-Loire). Read more. In publishing details of the mosquito’s spread throughout the region, the ECDC includes a map (March 2021) showing where the species is established or introduced. The ECDC also notes that no locally acquired cases of dengue fever or chikungunya have been detected in the EU this year. On a global level, in 2021 the majority of chikungunya cases were reported by Brazil, India, Belize, Malaysia and Cambodia, while highest case numbers of dengue fever were in Brazil, Peru, Vietnam, Réunion and the Philippines.
Advice for travellers
The symptoms of chikungunya fever are similar to dengue fever and both are transmitted by day-time feeding Aedes mosquitoes. Acute joint pain with a rash is typical of chikungunya and while fatal cases are rare, painful joints may persist for weeks or months after the acute phase has ended. There is no vaccine or prevention medication; using an effective, tropical-strength repellent to avoid insect bites is the best form of protection. Read more about chikungunya and dengue fever.
Before you travel, call Travelvax Australia’s telephone advisory service on 1300 360 164 (toll-free from landlines) for country-specific advice and information. You can also make an appointment at your nearest Travelvax clinic to obtain vaccinations, medication to prevent or treat illness, and accessories for your journey.