LA meeting has experienced an epidemic situation since January 13, 2025, with nearly 40,000 cases identified. Blood analyzes of the population suggest that at least 20 % of Reunionese are infected, some without symptoms. This wave, although considerable, remains less important than the historic epidemic of 2005, which had affected 40 % of the inhabitants. In early April, the health authorities launched, for the first time in the world in an epidemic period, a vaccination campaign for the over 65s. Everything has just been suddenly interrupted.
Should the vaccine be accused?
This decision comes after the appearance of three “serious undesirable events” including a death. These patients have developed symptoms similar to those of a serious chikungunya form a few days after receiving the IXCHIQ vaccine from the Valneva laboratory. The Ministry of Health said that “The causal link with the vaccine seems very likely in view of the symptoms, their time of appearance and biological results”. The age of vaccinated people and the composition of the vaccine could explain this link. Using a classic technique, it contains an attenuated living virus. “However, this type of vaccine has risks for certain populations, such as immunocompromised and, to a lesser extent, the elderly. The aging immune system produces more antibodies-interferon, increasing the risk of serious form of infect […] Read more
