The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a warning about a potential chikungunya epidemic in Europe, following several reported cases. The disease, spread by mosquitoes, causes severe joint pain and fever. A vaccine is now available in Sweden.
WHO Warns of Chikungunya Outbreak in Europe
WHO Warns of Chikungunya Outbreak in Europe
The World Health Organization (WHO) has raised alarms about a potential epidemic after an unusual number of chikungunya cases were reported in Europe this year.
On Tuesday, WHO issued a warning urging countries to take action to prevent a chikungunya epidemic, as reported by Reuters.
The warning follows reports of cases in regions of the Indian Ocean and Europe.
The disease, transmitted by mosquitoes, causes severe joint pain, fever, headache, and nausea. In severe cases, it can lead to acute illness and organ failure.
“History Repeats Itself”
An epidemic of chikungunya occurred on island groups in the early 2000s.
On the island of La Réunion, an estimated 266,000 people were infected during the outbreak.
“We see history repeating itself,” said WHO's Diana Rojas Alvarez during a press conference earlier this week.
About one-third of La Réunion's population has already been infected with the virus this year, and it now appears to be spreading.
According to Diana Rojas Alvarez, approximately 5.6 billion people live in areas at risk of infection.
Vaccine Available in Sweden
Typically found in tropical areas, chikungunya has infected people in both France and Italy this year.
So far, there is no major outbreak in Europe. In France, 30 cases have been reported, and in Italy, one, according to the Independent.
Last summer, cases were reported in the Balearic Islands, including the Swedish favorite, Mallorca.
A vaccine against the disease became available in Sweden earlier this year, reports Läkemedelsvärlden.
The vaccine was approved in Europe last year and is authorized for individuals over 18 years old.