Syringe Attacks in France: What We Know and How to Stay Safe
On June 21, 2025, during France’s annual Fête de la Musique, dozens of reports emerged across the country: over 145 people, mostly women and girls, said they were pricked with syringes by unknown individuals in the crowd.
Incidents were reported in Paris, Évreux, Rouen, Metz, Tours, Angoulême, and other cities. Victims described a sudden jab in the shoulder, arm, leg, or even neck, followed by symptoms such as nausea, dizziness, anxiety, and in some cases loss of consciousness.
The scale and nature of the event sparked shock and fear. Police launched an investigation, detaining 12 suspects, but the motive remains unclear.
Why Did It Trigger Panic?
Several reasons explain the widespread concern:
- Historical trauma. In the 1990s, across the post-Soviet region, urban legends spread about “syringe maniacs” allegedly infecting people with HIV. Though rarely verified, the fear persists.
- Online rumors. Just days before the festival, social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram were circulating posts about a “game” where men would “earn points” by stabbing women with needles.
- Sheer numbers. With over 145 victims in a single night, this became more than isolated incidents it turned into a social phenomenon.
What Do Medical Experts Say?
Toxicology reports revealed no signs of injected drugs in most victims. In many cases, the sensations may have been caused by:
- insect bites,
- minor scratches or blunt pressure,
- psychosomatic reactions driven by fear or suggestion.
Still, experts emphasize that even without actual injections, these acts amount to psychological assault. Some suggest it may have been a coordinated act of harassment, targeting women.
What Are the Authorities Doing?
- In cities like Paris, Metz, and Tours, police presence was ramped up at public events.
- Investigations were opened under “intentional harm” statutes, but as of now, no formal charges have been filed.
- Authorities are not ruling out mass psychogenic illness, where fear itself triggers real physical symptoms in crowds.
What to Do If You’re Pricked or Suspect It Happened?
This situation is very serious. Even if symptoms seem minor, it’s vital to act quickly. Here’s what to do:
1. Stay calm.
Panic will only worsen the situation. Remember: even if there was a prick, it doesn’t guarantee infection.
2. Clean the wound.
Wash the area with soap and water, then disinfect with alcohol or antiseptic.
3. Let the blood flow.
If blood appears at the site, do not try to stop it. Gently squeeze the area to let as much blood out as possible.
4. Seek medical attention immediately.
You have a window of 2 to 72 hours to start post-exposure treatment for HIV and other infections, if necessary.
5. Get tested repeatedly.
Tests are needed:
- immediately,
- in 1 month,
- in 3, 6, and 12 months.
In France, as in many countries, PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) is available a course of antiretroviral drugs that significantly reduces the risk of HIV if started early.
This series of incidents in France represents a new form of gender-based violence, aimed at spreading fear and disempowerment. Even if physical harm was minimal, the psychological impact is profound.
Authorities must treat this not as random mischief, but as a potential pattern of coordinated abuse. And for all of us awareness, preparedness, and support for victims are crucial steps forward.
In a world where aggression evolves, so must our response. Speak out. Seek help. And protect one another with calm minds and informed actions.
About the Author
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