As of May 4, Réunion has recorded over 47 500 chikungunya cases and 12 deaths amid an ongoing outbreak.
“Réunion is experiencing a chikungunya epidemic. We are currently seeing a drop in the epidemic's indicators as we enter the austral winter period,” said Stéphane Bonneau, Head of International Markets Development at La Réunion Tourism.
In a May 12 update, the World Health Organization (WHO) confirmed that Réunion and Mayotte were the most affected Indian Ocean destinations. Mayotte reported 116 chikungunya cases, as of May 4.
WHO noted that the most at risk included infants under three months, adults over 65, and those with underlying health conditions or comorbidities.
“All local players are mobilised to limit the spread of the epidemic. Tourist activities and holidays on the island are proceeding normally, in compliance with health recommendations,” said Bonneau.
However, visitors are being encouraged to follow certain precautions:
- Protect against mosquito bites by using insect repellents, wear long and light-coloured clothing and use mosquito nets or mosquito repellent devices at night.
- Seek medical attention if symptoms such as fever, joint pain or skin rashes develop.
- Continue mosquito protection measures even if symptoms appear.
While the chikungunya vaccine is not available in South Africa, it can be accessed in Réunion. Only people between the ages of 18 and 65, with no comorbidities, are eligible to receive the vaccine. Visitors require a medical prescription for an ARS (Regional Health Agency) procedure and a health insurance card.
