Madagascar's Mpox Outbreak Reaches Réunion Island

The Regional Health Agency (ARS) of Réunion has recently confirmed a second imported case of smallpox (mpox) from the Republic of Madagascar to the French Department of Réunion.

As of February 10, 2026, the ARS reported that there is no established epidemiological link between this new case and the first case confirmed on January 22, 2026.

An investigation has been conducted to identify at-risk contacts in Réunion, who have been individually informed and directed to seek medical follow-up. This follow-up may include the prescription of a reactive vaccination as soon as possible.

The ARS reminds everyone that anyone with suggestive symptoms (skin rash, ulcers, fever, swollen lymph nodes, etc.), particularly travelers returning from Madagascar or an area with active virus circulation, should contact their doctor or the SAMU-Centre 15 immediately, and isolate themselves immediately while awaiting medical advice.

Furthermore, in accordance with national recommendations, preventive vaccination (JYNNEOS®, MVA-BN®) is offered to the most exposed people (travelers going to areas of active circulation, people with multiple sexual partners, sex workers, exposed health professionals, and immunocompromised people.

And reactive vaccination is offered to at-risk contacts of confirmed cases, ideally within 4 to 14 days after exposure.

Vaccinations are carried out at authorized vaccination centers, such as the North and South University Hospital and CEGIDD West.

Mpox clade Ib cases in Madagascar began in late 2025, marking the country's first documented outbreak. As of early February 2026, approximately 250 confirmed mpox cases had been reported, concentrated in the Boeny region.

This report concerns tens of thousands of travelers who visit this island off Africa's eastern coast each year.

Before visiting Madagascar in 2026, the U.S. CDC recommends that at-risk travelers receive their first mpox vaccine at least 6 weeks before travel, if possible. Numerious travel vaccine clinics in the U.S. offer mpox vaccination services.