Aigues-Mortes reports first autochthonous chikungunya case in Gard

The Regional Health Agency (ARS) Occitanie has confirmed the first autochthonous case of chikungunya in the Gard department this year, located in the Aigues-Mortes sector. An autochthonous case is defined as an infection contracted via a tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus) bite within metropolitan territory by an individual who has not traveled to a tropical zone in the 15 days preceding symptom onset.

Health authorities stated that the patient's condition is not a cause for concern. To prevent local transmission, emergency preventive measures have been deployed in Aigues-Mortes, including entomological investigations to identify mosquito breeding sites, targeted mosquito control operations, and active searches for other symptomatic individuals in the vicinity.

Since May 1, 19 autochthonous chikungunya cases and 3 autochthonous dengue cases have been reported in the Occitanie region. Residents in Aigues-Mortes who have experienced symptoms such as fever, joint pain, or rashes since August are encouraged to consult a physician.