Chikungunya Cases in La Réunion Surge Past 20,000 as Epidemic Worsens
With 5,832 new cases in one week and severe impacts on infants and the elderly, health officials prepare to launch vaccinations targeting high-risk groups.
- Over 20,242 chikungunya cases have been reported in La Réunion since August 2024, with a 40% weekly increase recorded between March 17 and March 23, 2025.
- The epidemic has generalized across the island, with Tampon reporting 4,700 cases, making it the most affected area, followed by Saint-Denis, Saint-Paul, and Saint-Pierre.
- Severe cases have risen to 31, primarily affecting elderly adults and infants under two months, with 14 newborns hospitalized in critical condition, including cases of encephalitis from mother-to-child transmission.
- Health authorities are urging preventive measures, such as using repellents, mosquito nets, and eliminating stagnant water, to curb the spread of the disease.
- Vaccination campaigns are expected to begin imminently, prioritizing high-risk groups, as the epidemic is projected to peak between mid-April and the end of April 2025.
Sud Ouest 
Ouest-France 