News
6th Chikungunya Case Confirmed in Beau-Bassin as Emergency Fumigation Launched
Health authorities have launched an emergency response following the confirmation of a sixth case of Chikungunya in the Vandermeersch region of Beau-Bassin. The new infection, detected this week, has prompted immediate fumigation exercises and heightened public health surveillance across the district.
The patient, a 53-year-old individual, is currently receiving treatment at a private clinic.
Dr Fazil Khodabocus, the Acting Director of Health, confirmed the patient’s condition is “stable” and noted that this represents the only active case currently recorded in the country.
This latest diagnosis brings the total number of cases to six since mid-December 2025.
Emergency Sanitary Measures
In response to the detection, authorities are deploying a rigorous containment protocol starting this Tuesday, 6th January. The planned interventions include:
- Fumigation and Larviciding: Extensive spraying to eliminate adult mosquitoes and larvae.
- Contact Tracing: Identifying individuals who may have been exposed.
- Fever Surveys: Door-to-door health checks to monitor for potential new symptoms within the community.
“Preoccupying” Mosquito Density
Public health officials are particularly concerned by the surge in mosquito populations in the Plaisance and Roches-Brunes areas.
Dr Khodabocus revealed that the Breteau Index—a key metric used to measure mosquito density—has reached a level of 10.
“Vigilance is therefore essential,” Dr Khodabocus warned, noting that the index should ideally remain below 5.
The current weather pattern of intense heat interspersed with rainfall has created a breeding ground for mosquitoes in stagnant water, leading to a rapid population spike.
Public Advice and Prevention
The Ministry of Health is urging residents to remain alert for symptoms such as joint pain, fever, or skin rashes.
Anyone experiencing these signs is advised to visit a health centre immediately for a formal diagnosis and treatment.
To curb the spread, the public is encouraged to:
- Eliminate breeding sites: Remove any objects that collect stagnant water.
- Personal Protection: Wear long-sleeved clothing and apply insect repellent to prevent bites.
Source: Defi Media
