Dengue Fever in France (Autochthonus)
21 Aug 2015
The media has reported on two cases of locally acquired denge fever. The two cases reside in the same home in Nimes, Gard department in the Languedoc-Roussillon region of southern France. This is the first time that locally acquired dengue virus infection has been confirmed in the Gard. The two cases are well and give no history of travel outwith the area they reside in. A common local source of infection is being investigated.
The National Institute for Public Health Surveillance reports that since May 2015, four imported cases of dengue were recorded in the Languedoc-Roussillon region.
The health authorities have strengthened epidemiological surveillance measures and are investigating the mosquito populations and breeding sites around the area where the two cases were identified. Level 2 of the National Anti-spread of dengue and chikungunya plan has been activated in France.
(Via France TV (in French) - accessed 21/08/15)
Advice for Travellers
Travellers should be aware of the risk of mosquito-borne infections in certain areas of France. Travellers should always take steps to avoid mosquito bites.