While Castries celebrates its summer votive party, the city has to face an unwanted guest: the Tiger mosquito. Nine cases of chikungunya have been confirmed, pushing the health authorities to strengthen prevention measures.
In Castries, do not panic on board: fun and party first! And the mosquitoes are there for that … in the middle of the week of votive celebration, which is in full swing each year at the beginning of August, this town of more than 6,000 inhabitants must compose with a guest a little too spicy: the tiger mosquito.
Since the start of the summer season, nine cases of chikungunya have been identified in this city of Hérault. An assessment that stings for the town which had never been faced with the local circulation of the virus: “We keep informing new cases. I read that there were new, but I was also told about twelve. It is difficult to count, because all the patients do not necessarily consult”, says Claudine Vassas-Mejri, the mayor of Castries. An infection had also been identified in Prades-le-Lez, about 30 minutes from Montpellier.
A summer under high bite
Despite two demoustication operations, the last having taken place on July 23 and 24, orchestrated by the company Altopictus, new cases were reported, on the eve of the big party. But on the Castriotes side, the atmosphere remains relaxed. “It is not really a subject of concern. We pay attention, but we do not live in fear”, testifies the director of the retirement home La Farigoule. Same observation at the leisure center, where a case was however detected. “The child had been stung at his home and presented fever and great fatigue. As a precaution, our structure has been demonstrated. Since then, everything is calm, but we have been vigilant,” explains an official.
At the crown pharmacy, prevention posters are clearly visible: “Some customers are a little stressed and ask for advice. We remind them of the right reflexes: avoiding stagnant water, covering themselves, using repellents … They learn, but no one panic”, observe a preparer. The doors of the pharmacy remain closed, but that is not always enough to stop them: “We get stuck all day, there is really a lot.” For its part, the town hall continues its actions: “We have provided anti-mosquito products for the inhabitants”indicates the mayor.
Castries, Test municipality for ARS
The appearance of these Aboriginal cases of Chikungunya has piqued the curiosity of the ARS (Regional Health Agency), which launched an epidemiological survey on a national scale, in partnership with Public Health France. “The objective is to investigate by identifying cases, organizing treatments and raising awareness among health professionals such as residents. In Castries, we have carried out door-to-door actions”, explains Murielle Kordylas, representative of the ARS.
The municipality agreed to become pilot city in this experimental systemin close collaboration with the health authorities. “The city is very involved and wishes to continue this partnership with the ARS. We have therefore decided to go further by following more precisely the homes of tigers mosquitoes in the town. It is a question of estimating their number and measuring the effectiveness of the treatments put in place”, she continues. Two traps have already been installed to take samples and analyze the excrement of captured mosquitoes. These data will better understand the dynamics of propagation of the virus at the local level.
In the meantime, the town hall continues its prevention campaign, especially during this votive celebration period. “This gathering is also an opportunity to recall some rules of common sense”, Indicates Claudine Vassas-Mejri. The silence of mosquitoes will not be there, any more than that of Castriots, determined to take full advantage of the votive party.
Tenant: 5 gestures to limit mosquitoes at home
Even without being able to do major work, it is possible to limit the presence of mosquitoes at home. Here are some effective tips to set up when you are a tenant:
Removable mosquito nets
On windows, patio doors or ventilation mouths, removable mosquito nets are easy to install with adhesive. They prevent mosquitoes from entering without blocking light or ventilation.
Use a fan
Mosquitoes hate drafts. It is therefore enough to orient it towards the feet or the bed to disturb their flight during the night.
Anti-mosquito repellents
These electric diffusers, often based on Pyrethrinoids, are effective during the night, especially in the rooms. However, you have to ventilate when you wake up to renew the air.
Bed mosquito net
Particularly useful on the ground floor, it remains a formidably effective physical barrier, especially for children or sensitive people.
Limit humidity
Mosquitoes love water. It is therefore important to avoid stagnant water by regularly emptying the cups under the plants, and repairing small leaks (taps, pipes, joints, etc.).
