On March 26, 2018, the Prefect of Réunion declared a "low-intensity epidemic" under the ORSEC system for combating arboviral diseases. The Indian Ocean Regional Response Unit conducts epidemiological surveillance of dengue on the island of Réunion and publishes the data weekly in an epidemiological bulletin. The current epidemic could continue to intensify in the coming weeks. Indeed, the population is not immune to dengue (only 3.1% of blood donors tested for dengue in 2008 had antibodies against the virus), and current weather conditions are conducive to the development of vectors.

Epidemiological situation as of September 18, 2018:

• 6,565 biologically confirmed or probable cases reported since January 1, 2018

• Predominance of the DENV-2 serotype

• 140 cases hospitalized since early 2018

• 22 severe dengue cases

• 4 deaths

Learn more: Dengue epidemiological update for Réunion, September 18, 2018

Reminders of preventive measures everyone should take

• Remove containers of water around your home and waste that can serve as breeding grounds for mosquito larvae (empty saucers and small containers, follow the scheduled waste collection days, etc.)

• Protect yourself from mosquito bites (using diffusers, repellents, covering clothing, mosquito nets, etc.)

• Consult your doctor if symptoms of the disease appear and continue to protect yourself from mosquito bites.

For more information:

• Dengue: Information and Prevention Tools: /10000/themes/maladies-moustiques/dengue/dengue-outils.asp

• Dengue thematic dossier: /Dossiers-thematiques/Maladies-infectieuses/Maladies-a-transmission-vectorielle/Dengue

• Dengue: Understanding and Taking Action: /10000/themes/maladies-moustiques/dengue/index.asp

• Website of the Indian Ocean Regional Health Agency: https://www.ocean-indien.ars.sante.fr/moustiques-maladies-la-reunion