The Mauritian health authorities are closely monitoring the situation in Reunion Island following the launch of the chikungunya vaccination campaign there. The sister island reported one death and two serious cases suspected to be linked to the vaccine. As a result, Reunion authorities have revised their approach by excluding individuals over 65 from the campaign.
In Mauritius, concerns about the vaccine were raised earlier in April by the Minister of Health, Anil Bachoo, who emphasized the high cost of the vaccine and stated that any decision regarding its use would be made with caution, even if donated. This stance was reaffirmed yesterday by Dr. Fazil Khodabocus, acting director of health services, who said, “We do not use this vaccine. It was observed in Reunion Island that it poses risks for those over 65 years old. Pharmacovigilance has revealed a problem.”
Dr. Khodabocus made it clear that chikungunya vaccination is not currently planned in Mauritius. He stressed that before any vaccine is implemented, it must undergo rigorous validation, including formal endorsement from the World Health Organization. He explained that Reunion Island likely had to act swiftly due to a sharp rise in chikungunya cases, whereas Mauritius currently has just over one hundred cases, making vaccine use unjustified at this time.
People in Mauritius should take ample precautions, ensure hygiene and cleanliness is maintained at all costs.