Senegal and Chad report outbreaks of diphtheria and dengue fever

Senegal is facing a diphtheria outbreak with 248 confirmed cases and 11 deaths reported by the Ministry of Health and Public Hygiene. The disease has spread across 51 health districts in 13 regions. Dakar is the most affected region with 42 confirmed cases, followed by Kédougou, Diourbel, Touba, and Kaolack. Health authorities are emphasizing the importance of vaccination through the Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI) to prevent further spread.

Simultaneously, Chad has reported cases of dengue fever in the provinces of Ouaddaï, Wadi Fira, and Sila, as well as in N’Djaména. The Chadian Ministry of Public Health and Prevention noted that the viral disease is transmitted by mosquitoes. Authorities are advising citizens to use insecticide-treated mosquito nets, wear long sleeves, and eliminate standing water to reduce transmission risks.