News as of September 6, 2012

• Chikungunya/Dengue Surveillance: In mainland France, confirmed cases (both imported and locally acquired) have been subject to mandatory reporting since April 2006. In departments where the Aedes albopictus mosquito is present—including Lot-et-Garonne since August 11, 2012—a local system for reporting and rapid confirmation of suspected cases has been implemented, along with enhanced entomological surveillance and perifocal vector control measures (LAV). Since the start of enhanced surveillance in Lot-et-Garonne, 4 cases have been reported. To date, 1 case of dengue has been confirmed, imported from an endemic country. Vector control services have conducted an entomological survey around this imported case.

• 2012 Heat Wave and Health Alert System: SACS ended on 08/31/12.

• Risk of Hantavirus infection in Yosemite National Park: On August 30, 2012, the California Department of Public Health and Yosemite National Park authorities reported 6 confirmed cases of Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS), including 2 deaths since June 2012. U.S. health authorities believe that all individuals who stayed in canvas cabins at Curry Village between June 10 and August 24, 2012 (approximately 10,000 people) are likely to have been exposed to the virus. In France, the Ministry has directly contacted French families or groups of friends who stayed in these cabins to ensure that these individuals are able to recognize, if necessary, the early symptoms of the disease and to remind them to call 15 or their primary care physician. A toll-free number, 0 800 636 636, has also been set up for anyone who visited Curry Village and would like more information.

• PhysaTox Surveillance 2012 (July 1–August 31): Since early July, 32 cases of jellyfish stings have been reported by the sentinel network of beach first-aid stations.