Rift Valley Fever Outbreak Worsens in Senegal
Dakar, Senegal - The Rift Valley Fever epidemic currently impacting Senegal is escalating, wiht a rising death toll. As of the latest update from the Ministry of Health, 312 of the 381 confirmed cases have recovered.However, the outbreak has tragically claimed 29 lives, an increase from the 25 reported on October 23rd.
The current outbreak was first detected on September 21st in the Saint-Louis region, quickly spreading amongst communities involved in animal husbandry. While the virus was first identified in the Great Rift Valley of East Africa, near Kenya, it initially manifested in cattle populations across the wider region.
Rift Valley Fever is a zoonotic disease, meaning it transmits from animals to humans, primarily through mosquito bites or direct contact with infected animal blood, tissue, or fluids. Symptoms typically resemble the flu, including high fever, weakness, and muscle pain. In more severe cases, the disease can lead to serious complications like liver failure, inflammation of the eyes or brain.
Health officials note that Rift Valley Fever periodically resurfaces in parts of Africa, particularly during rainy seasons when mosquito populations flourish. Those working in animal husbandry and agricultural production are considered to be at the highest risk. Importantly, the virus does not spread directly from person to person.
The Ministry of Health continues to monitor the situation closely and implement measures to control the spread of the disease.
