A sharp increase in dengue fever cases on mainland France is worrying health authorities ahead of the Paris Olympics.

Dengue fever cases on mainland France are rising and are 10 times higher than those reported last year.

The progression of the disease is caused by the spread of tiger mosquitoes, which is difficult to stop.

Since 1 January 2024, more than 1,679 cases of dengue fever have been imported into mainland France. This is ten times more (131 cases) for the same period than a year earlier. “We are faced with an unprecedented situation.” said Director General of Health Dr. Gregory Emery. These imported cases involve people who have traveled to regions of the world, particularly the French West Indies (Guadeloupe and Martinique), where this virus, transmitted by tiger mosquitoes, circulates endemicly.

Since mid-2023, the majority of dengue cases imported into mainland France have been people returning from the French West Indies. “Almost 20% are over 65 years of age.”AND “Fortunately, there are very few children.”– Dr. Caroline Semail, Director General of Public Health in France, spoke in detail.

Even before the Olympics, which will contribute to the mixing of populations in the middle of the tiger mosquito season, 2024 promises to break the 2023 record for the number of dengue importations into mainland France (2019). The head of the Ministry of Health also called “Be vigilant and take the right measures to limit the spread of the tiger mosquito.” Prevention messages”It is all the more important that in the next few weeks France will host an important, joyful and positive event: the Olympic and Paralympic Games, many travelers will arrive in the metropolis. warned Gregory Emery.

Stagnant water, drying tank

The best way to prevent the spread of the plague, according to the Ministry of Health, is to eliminate points of stagnant water. Any puddle or abandoned container is potentially a breeding ground for the laying and birth of thousands of tiger mosquitoes. Climate change and falling temperatures are also contributing to the spread of hot climate-loving animals. Dengue fever is a viral disease that is most often benign and in about 1% of cases can progress to a more serious form that causes bleeding. Deaths are very rare. Symptoms, often flu-like (fever, headache, body aches), appear within 3 to 14 days after the bite.