Dengue Case Reported: French Polynesia Health Alert & Prevention Tips

Dengue Fever Cases Rise Globally and in France: What You Need to Understand

Dengue fever is experiencing a global surge, with cases and deaths significantly increasing in 2023 and 2024. This rise is attributed to factors like urbanization, increased human mobility, climate change, and the expanding range of mosquito vectors, particularly Aedes albopictus. France, both its overseas territories and the mainland, is seeing a notable increase in both imported and locally transmitted cases.

What is Dengue Fever?

Dengue fever is a viral infection transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes. Approximately half the world’s population lives in areas at risk of dengue transmission. [3] While often asymptomatic, dengue can develop into a severe illness with potentially fatal complications in 1-5% of symptomatic cases. [3] There are four distinct serotypes of the dengue virus, and subsequent infection with a different serotype increases the risk of severe disease. [3]

Current Situation in France

In 2024, mainland France recorded a record number of dengue cases, both imported (contracted during travel to tropical regions) and autochthonous (contracted within France). [4] As of early 2025, Santé publique France has reported over 1,100 imported cases of dengue and over 900 imported cases of chikungunya. [4] Recently, on March 19th, 2026, a single imported case was diagnosed at the hospital in Sia, prompting immediate action to prevent local spread.

Public Health Response

Santé publique France is actively monitoring and coordinating surveillance of dengue fever across the country. [1] Surveillance is adapted to regional risks, with enhanced monitoring in areas colonized by the Aedes vector mosquito. In response to the recent case in Sia, the following measures have been implemented:

• Isolation of the patient for one week.
• Elimination of mosquito breeding sites around the patient’s residence.
• Demicronization within a 150-meter radius of the residence.
• Reinforced epidemiological surveillance.

Symptoms of Dengue Fever

Common symptoms of dengue fever include:

• Fever
• Joint pain
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Headache
• Muscle aches
• Skin rash

Prevention and What You Can Do

The public is advised to take preventative measures against mosquito bites, including:

• Using mosquito repellents
• Eliminating mosquito breeding sites (standing water)
• Seeking prompt medical attention if experiencing symptoms.

Vaccination

Currently, two dengue vaccines are available: Dengvaxia® and Qdenga® (TAK-003). [3] Dengvaxia® is limited to individuals previously infected with dengue, and production ceased in 2024 due to low demand. [3] Qdenga® is recommended for children aged 6-16 years in areas with high transmission rates. [3] The Société francophone de Médecine tropicale et Santé internationale (SFMTSI) suggests extending vaccination to at-risk adults in overseas territories and travelers. [3]

Looking Ahead

Given the global spread of dengue fever and the increasing number of cases in France, continued vigilance and preventative measures are crucial. Public health authorities are closely monitoring the situation and working to inform the public about the risks and benefits of vaccination. [1]