The Mayor of Antibes, Jean Leonetti, has posted the following message about Chikungunya, after reviewing the situation with representatives from the Regional Health Agency (ARS) of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region. Here is a transcription in English of what the mayor said:
“The tiger mosquito, which carries the chikungunya virus, has become permanently established in the South Region.
“As of today (25 Sep ’25), 103 cases have been reported in Antibes and Juan-les-Pins, out of a total of 170 cases in the Alpes-Maritimes department. I would like to point out that no hospitalizations have been recorded so far.
“Chikungunya, which is transmitted by mosquitoes, is neither fatal nor contagious from person to person. The main symptoms are fever, joint or muscle pain, and skin rashes, with varying intensity depending on the individual.
“The priority is to prevent the spread of the virus. In case of symptoms, it is important to consult your general practitioner. A blood test (serology) will then be performed to confirm the diagnosis and officially report the case.
“This allows the Regional Health Agency to track the disease’s progression and, if necessary, carry out targeted mosquito control operations around the patient.”
UPDATE 17 JUNE 2026: As of today, no cases of Chikungunya have yet been reported this year, according to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control.
Which insecticides to use for tiger mosquitoes
The mayor added: “It’s also important to note that some insecticides sold online can pose risks to health and the environment. The product used by ARS, deltamethrin, has been approved by the French National Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health Safety. It poses no risk to the population or the environment.
“So far, around fifteen sites have already been treated, and a larger-scale nighttime operation is planned north of Antibes, covering approximately 13 kilometers.
“It’s important to remember that 70% of mosquito breeding grounds are located on private property. That’s why the City of Antibes is carrying out information and awareness campaigns for its residents.
Anti-Chikungunya planning for next year
“As a result of this situation, interventions will be made earlier in the season, starting in spring, when mosquitoes are still in the larval stage.
“Currently, the most effective actions remain to avoid standing water and to protect yourself with appropriate clothing and repellents.”
If you have symptoms, consult a doctor or call 📞 04 97 21 31 61 (CPTS Antipolis)
