THE ESSENTIAL
- Dengue fever is transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes.
- Symptoms range from mild fever to serious complications.
- Prevention is based on mosquito control and personal protection.
The majority of imported cases come from the French Antilles, with 82% of cases coming from Guadeloupe and/or Martinique. French Guiana, where the dengue virus is also circulating, is the source of 5% of imported cases.
No cases of indigenous transmission have been reported in metropolitan France in 2024 to date.
However, the risk of local transmission increases with the arrival of vector mosquitoes, notably the tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus), present in 71 departments.
What is dengue fever?
Dengue fever is a viral disease caused by the dengue virus, which belongs to the Flaviviridae family. It is mainly transmitted to humans through the bite of female Aedes mosquitoes, mainly Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus. These mosquitoes are active mainly during the day and are found in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide.
Severe dengue fever can cause organ failure, severe bleeding and a dangerous drop in blood pressure (shock), which can lead to death if not treated promptly.
Transmission and risks
Dengue is primarily an urban and semi-urban disease. Aedes mosquitoes breed in containers of stagnant water such as used tires, flower pots, jerry cans, water tanks, and puddles. Dengue outbreaks often occur during and after the rainy season in tropical regions.
Anyone living in or traveling to areas where dengue is endemic is at risk. Dengue outbreaks can affect entire communities, putting young children, the elderly, and those with underlying health conditions at particular risk.
Dengue treatment
There is no specific treatment for dengue fever. Care is primarily supportive and aims to manage symptoms and prevent complications. Here are some recommendations:
1. Hydration:
- Drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.
- Use oral rehydration solutions if necessary.
2. Rest and pain management:
- Complete rest to help the body recover.
- Use medications such as paracetamol to reduce fever and relieve pain. Avoid aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) as they can increase the risk of bleeding.
3. Medical monitoring:
- Consult a doctor as soon as symptoms appear.
- Monitor for signs of severe dengue fever and seek emergency medical attention if necessary.
Public Health France calls for vigilance and recommends that people traveling to areas where the dengue virus is circulating take protective measures against mosquito bites:
- Wear long, loose clothing.
- Apply mosquito repellent to exposed skin.
- Use mosquito nets treated with insecticide.
- Regularly empty containers of stagnant water around your home.
The dengue fever situation in metropolitan France this summer 2024 is worrying with an increase in imported cases. It is important to protect yourself against mosquito bites. In the event of symptoms suggestive of dengue fever (fever, headache, joint and muscle pain, rash) upon returning from a trip, it is important to consult a doctor and inform him of your trip.
For more information:
Public Health France website:
ANSES recommendations for the fight against vector mosquitoes:
