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Day: 21 August 2025

How Monaco is keeping control of its mosquito population

by: Cassandra Tanti
21/08/2025

With France experiencing a record surge in mosquito-borne diseases this summer, Monaco’s strategy to control its mosquito population has never appeared more vital. The Principality introduced a dedicated mosquito monitoring system in July 2024, and one year on, it continues to serve as a frontline defence against the spread of viruses such as dengue, chikungunya and Zika.

The Ministry of Health and Social Affairs has placed a network of monitoring devices across key areas of Monaco, particularly in public spaces. These traps allow experts to collect and analyse samples every week, ensuring that any trace of arboviruses is quickly identified. If a virus is detected, immediate intervention measures are triggered, ranging from targeted larvicidal treatments to adulticidal spraying, aimed at halting the risk of local transmission.

Containing the tiger mosquito

The tiger mosquito, Aedes albopictus, first reached the Riviera in 2004 and has since become firmly established throughout the Alpes-Maritimes and Monaco. It is the primary vector of dengue and chikungunya in Europe. The Principality’s dense urban environment makes surveillance especially important, as even a single infected mosquito can pose a significant risk if it bites a returning traveller carrying the virus from endemic regions abroad.

Shared responsibility with residents

While public monitoring provides the first line of defence, residents also play a crucial role. The Government urges individuals to protect themselves with mosquito repellents, nets and insecticides, and to eliminate standing water where mosquitoes breed. Those showing symptoms such as high fever, headache or nausea within ten days of returning from an affected region are advised to consult a doctor without delay. Early diagnosis is supported by rapid testing and compulsory reporting of dengue cases to the Department of Health Affairs, ensuring swift containment.

A model of prevention

Monaco’s proactive approach stands in sharp contrast to the unprecedented outbreaks reported in France this summer. By combining scientific monitoring, rapid response capacity and public cooperation, the Principality is aiming not only to limit mosquito populations but also to prevent the establishment of a transmission cycle altogether. The system has already become a key element in safeguarding Monaco’s residents and visitors during the height of the mosquito season.

See also: 

Mosquito threat intensifies in France: unprecedented rise in chikungunya, dengue and West Nile cases

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Photo credit: Richard McCreery, Monaco Life

France extends cheese recall as crisis spreads beyond borders

by: Kyriaki Topalidou
21/08/2025

French authorities have added four more contaminated products to their ongoing cheese recall as the crisis expands internationally, with affected French cheeses now withdrawn from stores across 30 countries. 

The latest additions, announced between August 18th and 20th, bring both new Listeria and E.coli contaminations to the recall list that began with the mass withdrawal on August 12th. The domestic crisis has escalated dramatically, with over 20 people in France falling ill and at least two deaths confirmed from consuming contaminated dairy products.

International health authorities have now identified additional cases in Norway, Denmark, Belgium, and the Netherlands, prompting coordinated recalls across global markets including the Unites States, Japan, and Australia.

Listeria Contaminations

Valmartin’s Emmental Râpé (1kg) sold through Promocash stores nationwide has been recalled, affecting products with January 2025 expiry dates distributed between late July and mid-August. Grand Reserva Leonardi Mascarpone Gorgonzola sold through Super U stores covers lot 250714 with August 23rd consumption dates, distributed throughout early August.

E.coli STEC Contaminations

Earl des Chapotons’ raw milk Crottins de Chavignol from lots 25/07 and 28/07 have been withdrawn due to suspected E.coli O145 contamination, sold nationwide between July 28th and August 13th. Additionally, Chèvrerie d’Amélie’s fresh goat cheese sold directly from their Indre farm affects lot 201, though sales were limited to July 21st only.

These new recalls add to the extensive list of Chavignol varieties already withdrawn, including products from Carrefour and Dubois-Boulay, all traced to shared production facilities during early August operations.

The dual bacterial contamination continues to pose significant medical threats. E.coli STEC symptoms typically appear within seven days, causing bloody diarrhea and severe abdominal pain, with children facing particular risk of kidney complications developing in 5-8% of cases.

Listeria infections can remain dormant for up to eight weeks before causing fever, headaches, and muscle pain. Pregnant women, elderly individuals, and immunocompromised consumers face heightened risks of severe, potentially fatal complications.

Consumers should immediately check refrigerators for any recalled products and dispose of contaminated items. All affected products can be returned to retailers for full refunds without receipts. The recalls remain active through September and October.

See also: 

France issues new cheese recall after mass callback on 12th August

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Main photo credit: Tabitha Mort, Pexels.

Black Jack 100 claims Palermo–Montecarlo glory with new course record

by: Cassandra Tanti
21/08/2025

History has been made on the waters of the Mediterranean as Black Jack 100, owned by Remon Vos of the Yacht Club de Monaco and skippered by Tristan Le Brun of Captain’s Club, stormed across the finish line to win the 20th Palermo–Montecarlo in real time. The 100-foot Maxi not only secured a commanding victory but also demolished its own course record.

Black Jack 100 completed the 500-nautical-mile crossing in just 1 day, 14 hours and 52 minutes – a staggering improvement on last year’s benchmark of 44 hours, 34 minutes and 24 seconds. The result underscores both the boat’s extraordinary potential and the seamless teamwork between owner, skipper and crew. It also places the Monaco entry firmly among the legends of this iconic offshore race.

From Palermo to Monaco, a defining challenge

The Palermo–Montecarlo, which set sail from Sicily on Tuesday, once again tested the fleet with changing winds and tactical decisions around Corsica before the dash to Monaco. For Black Jack 100, the combination of favourable easterlies and skilled navigation proved decisive in setting a new bar for future editions.

Photo source: Yacht Club de Monaco

A proud moment for Monaco

For the Yacht Club de Monaco, the victory carries added significance. As the event marks its 20th anniversary, the success of Black Jack 100 reflects the deep maritime connection between Sicily and Monaco, celebrated throughout the history of the regatta. It is also a triumph for the club’s commitment to fostering excellence in international offshore racing.

The legacy continues

Since its first edition in 2005, the Palermo–Montecarlo has drawn some of sailing’s most renowned names, and this latest victory by Black Jack 100 cements Monaco’s reputation on the global sailing stage. With its new record time, the Maxi has ensured that the 20th anniversary of the race will be remembered as one of its most spectacular chapters.

The Palermo–Montecarlo race is still underway, with the remaining competitors making their way towards the finish line in Monaco.

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Photo source: YCM

Monaco Yacht Show Summit returns with sustainability agenda

by: Kyriaki Topalidou
21/08/2025

The Monaco Yacht Show Summit returns from 24th to 27th September with sustainability at its core. This year’s programme centres on Monaco’s new Blue Wake initiative, designed to highlight eco-responsible solutions in yachting.

The summit kicks off with the Grand Opening Night on Tuesday 23rd September at Le Méridien Beach Plaza, where the first Blue Wake Awards will recognise companies leading environmental sustainability in the sector. The awards replace traditional yacht showcasing with recognition for practical environmental solutions already being implemented.

The opening conference on Wednesday officially launches the 34th edition, focusing on tangible progress in sustainable yachting.

Seven panel discussions

SuperYacht Times is organising seven roundtable discussions at the MYS Conference Hall above the Yacht Design & Innovation Hub at Port Hercule.

Wednesday starts with electrification in yacht propulsion at 14:40, hosted by Justin Ratcliffe, while at 16:00, Sophie Spicknell leads a discussion on underwater noise pollution.

The day ends with an exclusive screening of ‘Ocean with David Attenborough’ from 18:15-21:00, with director Toby Nowlan hosting a Q&A session. Access is by invitation only.

Thursday covers sustainable marina development at 11:00 with RAK Properties, The Ocean Cleanup, Safe Harbor, and MDL Marinas.

Meanwhile, the afternoon sessions examine yacht refits as a sustainability pathway at 14:40 and sustainable luxury design at 16:00.

Friday concludes with yacht stability challenges at 14:40. The final session at 16:00 explores sustainable superyacht destinations with representatives from Abu Dhabi Tourism, Old Doha Port, Balearic Marine Cluster, Bahamas Tourism, and Egypt Tourism Board.

Blue Wake Awards

The Water Revolution Foundation leads the awards selection using science-based methodology. Five categories include Refit/Builder Shipyard, Nautical Supplier, Luxury Products & Services, Tenders/Water Toys, and a Special Jury Award.

The jury includes representatives from the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation, Blue Marine Foundation, and Boat International.

All panel discussions are free with a valid MYS pass.

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Main photo credit: Monaco Yacht Show

Mosquito threat intensifies in France: unprecedented rise in chikungunya, dengue and West Nile cases

by: Cassandra Tanti
21/08/2025

On 21st August, Santé publique France issued a sobering mid-summer alert: France is witnessing a historic surge in indigenous cases of chikungunya, dengue, and West Nile virus – all transmitted via mosquito bites.

As of 19th August, authorities have identified 27 local outbreaks of chikungunya, resulting in 154 confirmed cases – a sharp rise from the 23 outbreaks and 115 cases recorded just a week earlier. Santé publique France describes the situation as “an unprecedented summer”. Previous years had never seen more than around 30 cases of chikungunya in mainland France.

Gradual but rising dengue incidence

Dengue cases, also spread by the tiger mosquito Aedes albopictus, are increasing. As of 19th August, there were seven active clusters with 13 cases, up from six clusters and 11 cases the prior week. Though still below the total recorded in the summer of 2024, which stood at 66 cases, the upward trend is clear.

West Nile virus spreads further north

The West Nile virus, transmitted primarily by the common Culex mosquito rather than the tiger mosquito, is also spreading. This summer has seen 13 human cases so far, including cases in Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur.

Underlying causes: expansion of the tiger mosquito and climate change

Entomologist and Pasteur Institute researcher Rachel Bellone told France 3 that these outbreaks are driven by the widespread colonisation of France by the tiger mosquito, combined with travellers importing infections, which then spark local transmission when bitten by infected mosquitoes. She noted that “we have already nearly matched last season’s total before even reaching the peak period”.

Aedes albopictus, first detected in southern France in 2004, has since colonised almost all of metropolitan France, thriving thanks to its resilience and adaptation to changing climates. Warming summers and persistent heatwaves, like those experienced this year, have facilitated its spread and increased the risk of transmission.

Symptoms and public health advice

Chikungunya, dengue, and West Nile virus often present with flu-like symptoms such as fever, muscle pain, and fatigue, making early diagnosis challenging. Santé publique France is urging vigilance in reporting suspected cases for swift response. Prevention remains focused on individual protection – using repellents, wearing long clothing, and eliminating stagnant water to disrupt mosquito breeding cycles. Local surveillance and containment are also seen as crucial to preventing further spread.

What this means for Monaco

Although Monaco benefits from robust local mosquito monitoring, the ongoing surge in neighbouring France is a serious reminder on the importance of vigilance, preparedness, and swift vector control.

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Photo credit: National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Unsplash