Since the beginning of 2025, Réunion has reported approximately 200,000 chikungunya infections, resulting in 23 deaths.

Experts suggest that due to climate change, urbanization, and increased mobility, chikungunya and dengue could become endemic in Europe, necessitating ongoing vigilance and control efforts.

On June 14, 2025, the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur Regional Health Agency confirmed the first autochthonous case of chikungunya in mainland France, specifically in La Crau, Var.

Chikungunya is primarily transmitted by tiger mosquitoes, which are now found throughout France and can also spread other diseases such as dengue fever and Zika.

An autochthonous case refers to a person who contracts the disease locally without recent travel to an infected area, highlighting the potential for local transmission.

This case is particularly significant as it marks the first instance of locally contracted chikungunya in France, contrasting with previous cases that were linked to travel, primarily from the island of Réunion, which is currently experiencing a severe outbreak.

Local authorities are also promoting preventative measures, including funding for mosquito traps and community efforts to eliminate stagnant water, which serves as breeding grounds for mosquitoes.

Residents are encouraged to use mosquito nets, anti-mosquito sprays, and wear long, loose-fitting clothing to minimize the risk of mosquito bites.

In response to the confirmed case, the ARS Paca announced immediate mosquito control measures to eliminate mosquito larvae and adult mosquitoes in public areas and private gardens around the detection site.

In addition to chikungunya, 2024 saw 83 indigenous cases of dengue reported across mainland France, especially in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, Occitanie, and Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes regions.

Symptoms of chikungunya include high fever, joint and muscle pain, fatigue, headaches, and rashes; individuals experiencing these symptoms are advised to seek medical attention promptly.

To further mitigate the risk of spread, door-to-door surveys will be conducted in the affected neighborhood by ARS and Public Health France to identify individuals showing symptoms and to disseminate prevention information.