Chikungunya Cases Rise in Alpes-Maritimes, Triggering Public Health Response
Nearly forty confirmed cases of chikungunya have been detected in the Alpes-Maritimes department, prompting health officials to urge residents to take preventative measures against mosquito bites. The Regional Health Agency (ARS) PACA sent an alert via SMS to approximately 11,000 residents of Antibes on Thursday evening, informing them of the outbreak and advising consultation with a doctor shoudl symptoms develop.
The majority of identified cases – 38 – are concentrated within the city of Antibes, specifically in the areas of Cougoulins, Saint-Claude, and the Combes. Additional cases have been reported in Auribeau-sur-Siagne,La Gaude,and Nice,bringing the total number of confirmed infections in the department to 41. Chikungunya is a viral disease transmitted through the bite of infected mosquitoes, causing fever and severe joint pain, and can lead to chronic complications.
Antibes city officials confirmed the outbreak and announced the continuation of a mosquito control campaign initiated on Wednesday. Demoustication efforts are currently focused on the corniche des Cougoulins, Avenue de la Valmasque, Chemin de Saint-Claude, Chemin des Combes-le Jardin, and Chemin du Valbosquet.
The ARS and the municipality are jointly advising the public to protect themselves from mosquito bites. Individuals experiencing symptoms such as joint pain, rash, or a fever exceeding 38.5°C are encouraged to seek medical attention promptly. Attempts to reach ARS PACA for further comment Thursday evening were unsuccessful.
