Reunion Grips with Rising Flu Cases as Winter Deepens
Saint-Denis, Reunion Island – The crisp air of the southern winter has brought with it a familiar foe: the influenza virus. Reunion Island is now officially in the grip of a flu epidemic,with health authorities reporting a meaningful increase in cases over the past few weeks.
The Regional Health Agency (ARS) confirmed the transition to the epidemic phase, noting a steady rise in influenza-related emergency room visits for five consecutive weeks.Between July 7 and July 13 alone, 226 patients presented at emergency rooms with flu symptoms, leading to 30 hospitalizations.
Analysis of the data reveals a strong prevalence of the H3N2 strain, accounting for 84% of positive influenza cases during that week. While H1N1 and Influenza B strains are also circulating, their presence is noted as being on the fringes. Importantly, no deaths have been attributed to the flu at this time.
In response to the escalating situation, the ARS is renewing its call for flu vaccinations, particularly targeting individuals at higher risk and their close contacts. Those aged 65 and over, pregnant women, individuals with chronic illnesses, and the immunocompromised are “strongly encouraged to be vaccinated,” with health insurance covering 100% of the cost for these groups.
The ARS emphasizes that while the vaccine may not always prevent illness,it significantly reduces the risk of severe complications,such as pneumonia or the exacerbation of existing chronic conditions.
Vaccination services are available through doctors, nurses, midwives, and pharmacists. however,it is significant to note that pharmacists are currently on strike and are not providing vaccination services at this moment.
Reunion Island’s vaccination coverage for the flu remains a concern. In 2024, only 46,588 of the 190,000 eligible individuals received the vaccine, resulting in a coverage rate of 24.5%,considerably lower than the national average of 50%.This trend appears set to continue, as the 2025 vaccination campaign, launched in mid-May alongside the COVID-19 vaccine campaign, aims to reach nearly 212,450 people.
The ARS urges everyone to remain vigilant and adopt preventative measures to curb the spread of the virus.
