In response to the alarming chikungunya outbreak on Réunion Island, French President Emmanuel Macron has issued a message of solidarity and vigilance, announcing free vaccinations for vulnerable seniors.

Réunion Island, a French overseas territory, is facing a severe health crisis due to a significant spike in chikungunya cases. Chikungunya is a mosquito-borne virus that causes symptoms such as severe joint pain, fever, and rash. While it is not typically fatal, it can be particularly dangerous for older adults and individuals with pre-existing health conditions.

In the past week, over 4,000 new cases of chikungunya have been reported on the island, prompting authorities to issue a health alert and launch an emergency health plan. This plan includes measures such as increasing hospital staff, opening additional beds, and recalling medical personnel from leave to manage the influx of patients.

Tragically, the outbreak has already resulted in the deaths of two elderly residents, aged 86 and 96. The situation has become critical, with the island's main public hospitals under considerable strain.

In response to this crisis, French President Emmanuel Macron has issued a message of solidarity and vigilance. He announced that starting Monday, people aged 65 and over with chronic illnesses will be eligible for free vaccinations. The Regional Health Agency (ARS) has received 40,000 doses of the Ixchiq vaccine, developed by the Franco-Austrian pharmaceutical group Valneva, to support this targeted vaccination campaign.

President Macron's call for solidarity emphasizes the importance of community effort in tackling the epidemic. The focus remains on protecting the most vulnerable populations and ensuring adequate medical support as the island braces for the peak of the outbreak expected in mid-April.

#France #Solidarity #Vigilance #EmmanuelMacron #FreeVaccinations #VulnerableSeniors #ChikungunyaEpidemic #ReunionIsland