The chikungunya epidemic is intensifying on the island of La Réunion, with 362 new cases reported between February 3 and February 9, according to the latest bulletin from Santé Publique France. This marks a significant increase from the previous week, which saw 204 new infections.
The communes of Le Tampon and L’Étang-Salé are currently the most affected areas, registering the highest number of cases since the beginning of the year, with 228 and 169 cases respectively. Le Tampon alone accounts for more than 80% of the recent surge, highlighting a pronounced presence of the virus in the area. Other regions such as Les Avirons, Petite-Île, Saint-Denis, Saint-Joseph, Saint-Louis, Saint-Paul, and Saint-Philippe are also experiencing rising case numbers.
The Regional Health Agency reports that the health impact remains relatively contained, with seven hospital admissions recorded for more than 24 hours, none of which have shown severe symptoms. Additionally, eight emergency room visits have been documented since the start of 2025.
The current austral summer, coupled with recent rainfall, provides favorable conditions for viral propagation, affecting both chikungunya and dengue outbreaks. Since the start of the year, La Réunion has recorded a total of 927 chikungunya cases.
Demographic data indicates that adults aged 45-59 are the most affected group, representing 27% of cases. Meanwhile, those aged 60-75 account for 22%, and individuals aged 30-44 make up 20%. Despite the lack of natural immunity from the 2005-2006 epidemic, those under 20 years old are not significantly affected by the current outbreak.
Health authorities warn that the current trajectory suggests the virus could spread across the entire island in the coming weeks. They urge residents to curb mosquito populations by eliminating standing water in and around homes and emphasize the use of repellents and mosquito nets as effective protective measures. Prompt testing is also advised at the onset of symptoms, with a PCR test being the definitive method for rapid confirmation within seven days of symptom appearance.
