03 Sep 2024 | 09:24 AM UTC
France: Indigenous dengue fever cases reported in multiple areas, especially Vaucluse, in early September
Indigenous dengue fever cases reported in multiple areas in France in early September. Vaucluse is most affected. Avoid mosquito bites.
Health authorities have reported indigenous dengue fever cases in multiple areas in France, with 21 cases reported June 17-Aug. 27. This is compared to two locally acquired cases reported over a similar period in 2023. Vaucluse (10 cases) is the most affected department, followed by Var (3 cases), Alpes-Maritimes (2 cases), Drôme (2 cases), Pyrenees-Orientales or Lozère (2 cases), Gard (1 case), and Herault (1 case). French health authorities implemented disease prevention and control measures, including eliminating mosquito breeding sites, insecticide spraying, and public awareness campaigns. This report represents the most complete data available as of Sept. 3.
If you have previously been infected with dengue fever, consult with your physician regarding vaccination. Avoid mosquito bites and remove standing water to reduce the number of biting mosquitoes. Seek medical attention if symptoms develop within two weeks of being in affected areas. Do not use aspirin or ibuprofen products if dengue fever is suspected, as these could exacerbate bleeding tendencies associated with the disease.
France has reported indigenous dengue fever cases since 2010, with sporadic outbreaks seen in the southern regions due to climate change and increased international travel. Health authorities reported 45 indigenous dengue fever cases in France in 2023, 65 cases in 2022, 2 cases in 2021, and 13 cases in 2020. Most cases reported in France are imported (concerning travelers infected in other countries), with 1,164 imported dengue fever cases identified in mainland France from May 1-Aug. 27, 2024, including 1,036 cases in departments where the establishment of the Aedes albopictus (a mosquito that is a known vector of dengue fever) has been documented.
Dengue fever is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. The risk of infection is often highest in urban and semi-urban areas. Symptoms of dengue fever include a sudden onset of fever and at least one of the following: severe headache, severe pain behind the eyes, muscle and/or joint pain, rash, easy bruising, and/or nose or gum bleeding. Symptoms typically appear 5-7 days after being bitten but can develop up to 10 days after exposure. Dengue fever can progress to a more severe form known as dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF). DHF can be fatal if it is not recognized and treated in a timely manner. There are two dengue fever vaccines, Dengvaxia (CYD-TDV) and Qdenga (TAK-003). Dengvaxia is only recommended for individuals with a history of dengue infection and who live in dengue-endemic countries or areas. Qdenga is recommended for use in children aged 6-16 in settings with high dengue burden and transmission intensity. Check with your healthcare provider if dengue vaccination is needed.
