PARIS, June 13 (Xinhua) -- The first locally transmitted case of chikungunya in metropolitan France this year was confirmed on Wednesday in the town of La Crau, located in the southern department of Var, the Regional Health Agency (ARS) of Provence-Alpes-Cote d'Azur (PACA) said Friday.
Chikungunya is a viral illness transmitted to humans by mosquitoes carrying the virus. Although rarely fatal, the disease typically causes fever, joint pain, and fatigue. Symptoms are generally self-limiting, resolving within two to three days, and individuals who recover from it acquire lifelong immunity.
Meanwhile, France's overseas territory of La Reunion is facing a significant chikungunya outbreak. Since the beginning of the year, the island has recorded 53,749 confirmed cases and 23 related deaths, according to official figures. ■
