Key points

Chikungunya, dengue, Zika

In 2018, an experimental surveillance system was implemented in Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur by the Regional Health Agency and Santé publique France, based on new management protocols (minimal investigation) for reported imported suspected cases. An evaluation of the program revealed an effective and efficient system that significantly reduced the number of entomological surveys and vector control treatments. The surveillance program will be renewed and simplified in 2019.
A new outbreak of locally transmitted dengue cases occurred in the Alpes-Maritimes in 2018. It was quickly brought under control.

West Nile

In Europe, the number of West Nile virus (WNV) infection cases identified in 2018 was higher than in the previous seven years combined.
An exceptional episode of WNV circulation occurred around the Mediterranean, with 27 cases reported (particularly in the Alpes-Maritimes). A lineage 2 virus was isolated for the first time in France.
The surveillance system for human cases must be reviewed and improved.
A multidisciplinary approach, combining human, animal (equine and avian), and entomological surveillance, is essential.