FR Alert to Sound in Antibes as Chikungunya Cases Surpass 140 in Alpes-Maritimes
Antibes,Alpes-Maritimes – Residents of Antibes will receive an emergency FR Alert message on their mobile phones at 10:00 AM local time this Wednesday as health authorities grapple wiht a growing chikungunya outbreak. The alert, a system typically reserved for natural disaster warnings, aims to rapidly disseminate safety instructions to prevent further contamination.
As of Tuesday, September 24, 2024, the Regional Health agency (ARS) has identified a total of 140 cases of chikungunya within the Alpes-Maritimes department, with new infections continuing to emerge. The escalating situation prompted a coordinated response from ARS, Public Health France, the City of Antibes, and the Alpes-Maritimes prefecture. This outbreak underscores the increasing threat of vector-borne diseases linked to climate change and globalization, demanding swift public health intervention to protect vulnerable populations.
The FR Alert will serve as a critical reminder of preventative measures, officials stated. Earlier today, Eric Pauget, a deputy representing the 7th district of the Alpes-Maritimes, announced he secured support from the Ministry of health to expedite the deployment of emergency resources. These measures will bolster existing efforts undertaken by the City of Antibes to contain the spread of the virus along the Côte d’Azur.
