Chikungunya Cases in La Réunion Surpass 20,000 as Epidemic Nears Peak

Healthcare system faces critical strain, with vaccination campaign set to begin April 7 targeting high-risk groups.

The chikungunya epidemic in La Réunion has exceeded 20,000 reported cases since August 2024, with 6,000 new cases recorded in a single week in late March 2025.
Two elderly individuals have died, and 31 severe cases, including infants in critical condition, have been confirmed.
The healthcare system, particularly in the southern region, is under significant pressure, prompting hospitals to urge the public to avoid non-urgent emergency visits.
40,000 doses of the Ixchiq vaccine have arrived, with a vaccination campaign prioritizing individuals aged 65 and older with comorbidities starting April 7, 2025.
Government officials, including Minister of Overseas Territories Manuel Valls, are actively overseeing the response as the epidemic is expected to peak in mid-April.