France sees rise in local chikungunya and dengue cases

France is experiencing an increase in autochthonous (locally transmitted) cases of arboviruses, including chikungunya and dengue, driven by the expansion of the tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus). The mosquito has now colonized 83 of the 96 mainland departments.

In the Occitanie region, several local transmission episodes have been identified. Specifically, in the Tarn department, eight cases of chikungunya were recorded in the commune of Saint-Amans-Soult, marking the first detection of the virus in that area. Additionally, dengue cases have been identified in the Tarn and Hérault departments.

In the Gironde and Tarn regions, approximately 20 local chikungunya infections were reported around mid-August 2026. To manage these outbreaks, health authorities have implemented vector control measures, including mosquito spraying (démoustication), public health awareness, and enhanced monitoring of blood and organ donations. While local transmission is rising, Santé publique France also noted a significant number of imported cases, including 295 cases of dengue and 105 cases of chikungunya since May 1.