Sixth Case Detected - Chikungunya: Authorities Strengthen Health Measures

A sixth case of chikungunya has been confirmed in Beau-Bassin. Health authorities are intensifying control operations and urging the public to remain vigilant due to a concerning density of mosquitoes.

The new case of chikungunya was detected in the Vandermeersch area of Beau-Bassin, bringing the total number of reported cases to six since mid-December 2025. The patient is a 53-year-old individual currently admitted to a private clinic for appropriate treatment. According to Dr. Fazil Khodabocus, the acting Director of Health, the patient's condition is "stable". He noted that this is the only active case recorded in the country to date.

Following this detection, health operations for larviciding and fumigation will be initiated this Tuesday. Case tracing operations and a fever survey will also be conducted, in accordance with established protocols.

Moreover, the mosquito population observed in the Plaisance and Roches-Brunes areas has caught the attention of public health services. Dr. Fazil Khodabocus indicated that the Breteau Index, which measures mosquito density, is around 10, whereas it should be below 5. "Vigilance is therefore essential," he emphasized.

The doctor encourages members of the public to visit a health center if they experience joint pain, fever, or rashes so that an appropriate diagnosis can be made and suitable treatment administered. He highlights that the heat and alternating rains promote a rapid increase in the mosquito population in the presence of stagnant water. Therefore, any potential larval breeding sites should be eliminated. It is also recommended to protect oneself from mosquito bites by wearing long-sleeved clothing and using repellents.