Mosquito-borne illness alert: The CDC says chikungunya outbreaks are active in French Guiana and several other destinations, with travelers urged to use repellent (DEET or picaridin) and wear light, loose clothing to reduce bites. Public health travel guidance: The CDC also flags an elevated risk in other countries, and notes most people recover within about two weeks, though joint pain can linger for months. Regional disaster response (French Guiana links): Search and rescue efforts continue after the MV Barima ferry capsized off Guyana, with French Guiana support including 12 specialist divers, two medics, and a mechanic helping shift operations into recovery mode. Maritime tragedy update: Guyana’s death toll has risen as bodies are recovered and identities processed, while survivors describe the sinking as extremely fast and chaotic. Wildlife safety in French Guiana: A harpy eagle attack on a tourist has reignited debate about rare human-wildlife encounters and how to balance conservation awareness with public safety. Health & environment enforcement: Brazil is using “gold fingerprinting” forensic lab work to trace illegal gold mining sources—aimed at cutting deforestation and mercury pollution that can harm community health.