French health authorities have initiated emergency SMS alerts to combat a growing chikungunya outbreak transmitted by tiger mosquitoes, with Antibes in the Alpes-Maritimes department experiencing an unprecedented local transmission cluster. On September 24, the prefecture sent FR-Alert messages to all residents of Antibes containing specific safety instructions regarding the virus, which has infected 103 people in the commune since July 2025. This represents the largest autochthonous chikungunya focus ever recorded in mainland France.

The alert system provides clear guidelines for protection, including using repellents, wearing loose clothing, installing mosquito nets, and consulting medical professionals if symptoms such as high fever, joint pain, or skin rashes appear. Authorities emphasized the importance of eliminating stagnant water sources around homes to disrupt mosquito breeding cycles. The regional health agency's website offers additional information about vector control measures as the situation continues to evolve.

Meanwhile, Brive in Corrèze has reported three new autochthonous cases, bringing the local total to seven infections. According to Santé Publique France's September 24 bulletin, 570 autochthonous chikungunya cases have been identified nationwide as of September 22. The Nouvelle-Aquitaine region shows significant activity, with Bergerac recording 81 cases and Val-de-Cognac reporting 15, indicating broader geographical spread beyond the initial Antibes outbreak.

Despite nighttime mosquito control operations in Brive's Prieur neighborhood, transmission persists, highlighting challenges in containing the outbreak. Health officials recommend additional protective measures including using fans to deter mosquitoes, properly storing outdoor items that can collect water, and covering water reserves. With the tiger mosquito now established throughout metropolitan France, authorities continue monitoring the situation while emphasizing individual prevention strategies as cooler weather approaches.