CNRS researcher in Montpellier, specialist in interactions between biology and environment, Claude Grison is sounding the alarm on the establishment of the Chikungunya virus in France. While several cases have recently been detected in Prades-le-Lez and Castries, it returns to the origins of the virus, on the tiger mosquito and the future health issues. For her, prevention is more crucial than ever.
What is the Chikungunya virus?
It is an infectious disease of tropical origin, caused by a arbovirus transmitted by the tiger mosquito. For there to be transmission, a mosquito has to sticker a person who is already carrying the virus, then contaminates others. Observed for the first time in the 1950s in Tanzania, chikungunya quickly became a global health issue. Infection generally causes significant joint pain, accompanied by fever and fatigue.
How did this mosquito implant so quickly in France?
We think that he arrived in France by plane, from Southeast Asia. A mosquito or a larva had to be in a tire containing a little water. The first indigenous case was identified in the Alps in 2007, and since then, the tiger mosquito has been present in 80 French departments. It is found today on five continents. Its progression has been dazzling, which is quite rare. This is why it is considered one of the most invasive species in the world.
Why in Castries?
Occitania unfortunately meets ideal conditions for the development of the tiger mosquito, with its warm and humid climate. He begins to lay from 30 ° C so it’s perfect for him. In Castries, I don’t see anything that could have favored the development of the virus. It is likely that a person has contracted him on a trip before bringing him back. This is what is worrying, he can come to us at any time. It is enough that a resident of Castries will come to do his shopping in Montpellier and gets stung so that the transmission starts elsewhere.
The tiger mosquito will not leave
Is this virus worrying?
It is now permanently installed in France and it will not leave. It is up to us to remain vigilant. It does not only transmit chikungunya, but also other dangerous viruses such as dengue. It can bring up to 20 different arboviruses and transmit them by bite. From the Pandemic of Covid-19, some scientists fear that a future pandemic can be linked to dengue. This risk should be taken seriously.
Solutions?
Two vaccines are progressing rapidly, but prevention remains essential. Vaccines help the body defend itself, but once the virus contracted, only symptoms can be treated. An infected person remains for life and can continue to transmit the virus via the bites. It is not a harmless disease: you have to protect yourself, because this virus is installed with us and will not disappear. You have to learn to live with it.
