Rapid Risk Assessment: Cluster of autochthonous chikungunya cases in France

This rapid risk assessment has been produced In the context of a cluster of four confirmed cases and one probable locally-acquired case of chikungunya in Var department, in southern France.

The report of a cluster of autochthonous chikungunya cases in areas of Europe where Aedes albopictus is established is not unexpected during the summer months, when environmental conditions are favourable for mosquitoes. The risk of new clusters of local transmission emerging in the EU is currently considered moderate for chikungunya and dengue, as these diseases are endemic in large areas of the intertropical zone, repeated introductions occur through viraemic travellers returning from these areas, and weather conditions are currently suitable for Aedes albopictus activity in areas where it is established.