Chikungunya epidemic eclipses 20,000 cases, 14 newborns hospitalized
Reunion Island records 5,832 confirmed cases in past week
The Agence Regionale de Sante La Reunion (ARS La Reunion) reported an additional 5,832 confirmed chikungunya cases the week ending March 23, bringing the epidemic total to 20,242 cases and two deaths.
The epidemic continues to progress and is widespread across the entire island.
The municipality of Le Tampon has recorded the highest number of cases (4,700 cases). The towns of Saint-Denis, Saint-Paul, and Saint-Pierre are now among the most affected areas in the country.
Hospital activity is still increasing with 129 hospitalizations lasting more than 24 hours .
Among these patients, a quarter were under 6 months old and nearly half were over 65 years old. In total, for the week of March 17 to 23, 25 pregnant women and 17 infants were hospitalized.
14 newborns were hospitalized in a pediatric intensive care or natal resuscitation unit:
2 children were admitted to neonatal intensive care following a neurological complication (encephalitis) linked to transmission of the virus from mother to child.
12 children were infected more than 7 days after birth , with no link to maternal infection.
All had severe forms, requiring emergency treatment in intensive care.
Authorities recommend that pregnant women protect themselves throughout their pregnancy, especially during the last trimester. The most effective means of protection for this vulnerable population are:
The use of mosquito repellents suitable for pregnant women and infants , 3 times a day.
Installation of bed/crib mosquito nets and mosquito nets on doors/shutters;
Wearing long clothes ;
Eliminating stagnant water in your home.
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The Ixchiq vaccine, recommended by the French National Health Authority for priority groups, is not indicated for pregnant women or children. Only the above-mentioned protective measures are recommended for pregnant women, newborns, and infants.
Faced with the chikungunya epidemic that is spreading throughout the territory, the ARS La Réunion and the prefecture are mobilizing through the new communication campaign “All actors, let's protect ourselves, let's protect the most vulnerable!”:
Radio campaign
Poster campaign
Digital campaign (YouTube, Google, local news sites)
Social media campaign by the ARS and the prefecture
Goals :
Remind everyone of their responsibility in the fight against chikungunya by applying simple actions:
Protect yourself against mosquito bites (mosquito nets, spray) and continue to protect yourself even after contracting the disease.
Eliminate standing water where mosquitoes can lay their eggs
Consult a doctor if symptoms occur
Raise awareness about the protection of vulnerable groups: pregnant women, the elderly and people with comorbidities (hypertension, diabetes, heart, respiratory, kidney, liver and neurovascular diseases)