Southern France has witnessed a historic rise in cases of chikungunya and dengue fever over the 2025 summer season, with more than 300 indigenous cases of chikungunya reported—a level never before seen in mainland France, according to Public Health France.
The outbreak has affected both urban centres and popular tourist destinations, raising concerns over further spread as summer travel continues across the country.
Chikungunya, a viral infection transmitted by the tiger mosquito, presents with high fever, severe joint pain, headaches, rashes, and profound fatigue. While mortality remains low, vulnerable populations—including the elderly and individuals with chronic illnesses—face heightened risks of complications.
The prolonged joint pain, which can persist for weeks or months, adds to the disease’s burden, prompting authorities to closely monitor each outbreak.
Most cases this summer were concentrated in Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur, Corsica, Occitanie, and Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes. Although several outbreaks have now been contained, public health officials warn that tourist-heavy regions provide fertile ground for the virus to spread further.
“Other areas, previously spared, could also experience local transmissions if conditions remain favourable,” the agency cautioned.
The resurgence underscores the entrenchment of the tiger mosquito across France. Authorities are urging residents to take preventive measures, including eliminating stagnant water around homes and using mosquito repellents, to curb the virus’s spread.
“The 2025 summer season confirms that mosquito-borne diseases are no longer confined to tropical regions,” said a health official.
“France must now address this as a persistent public health threat, combining individual vigilance with coordinated surveillance and prevention strategies.”
Experts stress that the combination of climate conditions, increased mobility during holidays, and urbanisation of mosquito habitats has amplified transmission risks. The recent spike serves as a warning that mosquito-borne diseases could become a recurring challenge for mainland France, requiring long-term public health planning and community engagement.
Public Health France continues to monitor cases closely, urging both residents and travellers to remain alert to symptoms and to seek medical advice promptly if infected.
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