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Mozzwise Briefing

France
Overall Risk: Low

France has seasonal mosquito activity from May through October, with peak populations in summer. The Mediterranean south (Provence, Languedoc, Corsica) has the highest mosquito density and the longest season. Aedes albopictus has been established in southern France since 2004 and has spread to over 70 departments.

West Nile virus is the primary mosquito-borne disease concern, with periodic cases in the south. Dengue fever has seen locally-acquired cases in southern France. Chikungunya risk exists in areas with established Aedes albopictus. Overall risk remains low, but the expanding tiger mosquito range is a growing concern.

Culex pipiens is common throughout. Aedes albopictus is the expanding invasive species, now present across much of southern and central France. The French health authorities conduct active surveillance and public education campaigns about tiger mosquito bite prevention.

Precautions

Use DEET (20%+) or Picaridin-based repellent on exposed skin
Wear light-colored, long-sleeve clothing at dawn and dusk
Sleep under a permethrin-treated mosquito net if no air conditioning
Eliminate standing water near your accommodation
Keep windows and doors closed or screened
Consider antimalarial prophylaxis if malaria is present — consult your doctor
Recommended Protection

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More in Europe

Explore mosquito risk briefings for other destinations in Europe.

ItalyGreeceSpainCroatiaTurkeyRomaniaBulgariaHungarySerbiaSloveniaSlovakiaCzechiaNorth MacedoniaBosnia and HerzegovinaMontenegroAlbaniaCyprusGeorgiaUkraineMoldovaRussiaGermanyAustria

Disease presence data is sourced from WHO, CDC, ECDC, and OpenDengue. This is not medical advice — consult a travel health professional before your trip.

Mosquito Risk in France | Mozzwise