Senegal faces diphtheria outbreak spreading to 11 regions

Senegal is facing a significant resurgence of diphtheria, with the disease spreading to 11 of the country's 14 regions. According to the Ministry of Health and Public Hygiene, there have been 76 confirmed cases and 9 deaths reported nationwide.

Kédougou remains the primary epicenter with 28 infections, followed by Dakar with 12 cases, Thiès with 10, and Louga with 9. The outbreak has also reached regions including Diourbel, Kaolack, Matam, Fatick, Kolda, Saint-Louis, Ziguinchor, and Tambacounda. In the Kaolack region specifically, health officials reported four cases and one death.

Experts suggest the resurgence may be linked to cross-border contamination, as neighboring Mali, Mauritania, and Guinea have also experienced diphtheria outbreaks since 2025. The bacterial infection primarily attacks the upper respiratory tract, causing high fever, sore throat, and difficulty swallowing. A critical symptom is the appearance of thick, grayish membranes in the throat that can lead to suffocation.

Health authorities are urging the public to avoid self-medication and to ensure children complete their vaccination schedules through the Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI). Dr. Aïssatou Barry Diouf, the Regional Director of Health for Kaolack, emphasized that the disease is airborne and recommended wearing masks and seeking immediate medical attention for symptoms such as white patches in the throat or breathing difficulties.