Headlines - Enhanced surveillance for chikungunya, dengue, and Zika virus in mainland France from May 1 to November 30

In 2018, the Aedes albopictus mosquito (“tiger mosquito”), a vector for chikungunya, dengue, and Zika virus infections, is established in 42 metropolitan departments, including Saône-et-Loire (Figure). In these departments, the blood-feeding activity of the female mosquito, which is most active from May to November, enables local transmission from individuals previously infected during trips to areas where these diseases circulate.In mainland France, routine year-round surveillance of chikungunya, dengue, and Zika virus infection relies on mandatory reporting (MR) of biologically confirmed cases.To minimize the risk of transmission in mainland France, from May 1 to November 30, in departments where Aedes albopictus is established, surveillance through mandatory reporting is considered “enhanced,” with imported cases reported as soon as clinical suspicion arises (suspected cases). This immediate reporting, without waiting for laboratory confirmation, allows for the implementation of prevention or vector control measures around the cases.How to report in Bourgogne-Franche-Comté? Clinicians and medical laboratories in Saône-et-Loire must report any suspected case of chikungunya, dengue, or Zika virus infection as soon as it is suspected, using the reporting form. This reporting form should be sent to the regional focal point of the Regional Health Agency (ARS)—by email to ars-bfc-alerte@ars.sante.fr or by fax to 03 81 65 58 65.For the 7 other departments in the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region, surveillance remains standard and is based on the mandatory reporting of biologically confirmed cases. Biologically confirmed diagnoses of these 3 viruses must be reported using the DO form and sent by email to ars-bfc-alerte@ars.sante.fr or by fax to 03 81 65 58 65.The results of the enhanced surveillance implemented in 2017, as well as the surveillance procedures for this year, are presented on pages 3 and 4 of this week’s epidemiological update.