Alarm level red for travelers: Chikungunya and terrorist warnings in France!

Alarm level red for travelers: Chikungunya and terrorist warnings in France!

The Federal Foreign Office revised its travel instruction for France in May 2025 to inform travelers about the current security situation and health risks. The situation has intensified in particular on the island of La Réunion: since the beginning of the year, the cases of Chikungunya fever, a viral infection that causes high fever and joint pain. The virus is transmitted by day-active Aedes mosquitoes, and the authorities expect further spread during the southern summer. As a result of these developments, the mosquito combat was intensified, but consistent mosquito protection remains essential. Infections were also reported on Mayotte, partly by traveling La Réunion.

vacationers are urgently encouraged to consider local recommendations: wearing long clothing, the use of insect protection and preferred climatted rooms are recommended to reduce the risk of infection.

security situation in France

The security situation in France remains tense. The highest terrorist warning level "Urgence attack" has been in force since the escalation in the Middle East. The military patrols in the streets, and at train stations, airports and metro trains are intensive checks. Travelers should be particularly vigilant and avoid human accumulation to minimize potential risks. The Foreign Office also indicates the increased risk of pickpockets, especially in tourist areas. Values ​​should be carried safely on the body, and documents should only be shown as copies.

In addition, it is recommended to avoid rest areas overnight and park motorhomes in guarded parking spaces. Travelers should always have valid ID documents - passport or ID card are necessary, while driving license or birth certificate is not sufficient.

travel information and health

Almost all motorways in France are subject to toll, and in environmental zones, such as in Paris, the French environmental badge "Crit’Air" is required. German badges are not valid. According to the Ruhr24 , travelers should also find out about current weather reports and pay attention to local messages and information from the authorities.

In terms of health risks, there are no mandatory vaccinations for the stay in France. However, it is recommended to refresh the vaccination protection against measles, hepatitis A and TBE. Pets need the EU pet ID with a valid rabies vaccination certificate.

The security situation in the French overseas areas is also tense. The tropical hurricane "Chido" caused considerable damage to Mayotte in December 2024, and the auxiliary and salvage work is still ongoing. In Martinique there is a tense state due to demonstrations about high living costs, and in Guadeloupe a strike in the energy sector led to power failures. The situation is also unstable in New Caledonia, which was reinforced by violent clashes in May 2024.

As a preventive measure, travelers should register in the crisis prior list and subscribe to the "Travel safely" app in order to always receive current information. Sufficient travel health insurance protection and compliance with the entry requirements are also essential for a safe trip to France.