2024-04-23 18:01:47
Dengue cases in mainland France are increasing and are 10 times higher than those recorded last year. The development of the disease is caused by the spread of the tiger mosquito which is difficult to stop.
Since 1 January 2024, more than 1,679 cases of dengue have been imported into mainland France. This is ten times more (131 cases) in the same period than the previous year. “We are facing an unprecedented situation.” declared the Director General of Health, Dr Grégory Emery. These imported cases concern people who have traveled to regions of the world, particularly the French Antilles (Guadeloupe and Martinique), where this virus is transmitted by tiger mosquito.
Since mid-2023, the majority of dengue cases imported into mainland France have been people returning from the French West Indies. “Almost 20% are over 65 years old”a “Fortunately very few children”detailed Director General of Public Health France, Dr Caroline Semaille.
Even before the Olympics, which will encourage mixing of populations in the middle of tiger mosquito season, 2024 promises to break the 2023 record for cases of dengue imported into mainland France (2019). The director of health also called for “be vigilant and adopt the right actions to limit the spread of the tiger mosquito”. Preventive messages “all the more important as in the next few weeks France will host an important, happy and positive event: the Olympic and Paralympic Games, where many travelers will come to the metropolitan area. Gregory Emery warned.
Stagnant water, a reservoir to dry up
The best way to prevent the spread of the scourge, according to the Ministry of Health, is to eliminate stagnant water points. Any puddle or abandoned container is a potential breeding ground that contributes to the laying and birth of thousands of tiger mosquitoes. Climate change and falling temperatures also favor the spread of animals that love warm climates. Dengue fever is a viral disease that is mostly benign, which in around 1% of cases can develop into a more serious form, especially causing bleeding. Deaths are very rare. The symptoms, often flu-like (fever, headache, body aches), appear within 3 to 14 days following the bite.
Axel JUIN with AFP
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