Rift Valley Fever Cases Surge in senegal, Raising Public Health Concerns
Dakar, senegal – October 4, 2025 – senegal is experiencing a concerning rise in Rift Valley Fever (RVF) cases, with the latest figures released by the Ministry of Health showing a significant increase in both infections and fatalities. As of October 3rd, the country has recorded 78 confirmed cases and 11 deaths attributed to the viral disease, up from 56 cases and 8 deaths reported just one day prior on October 2nd.
This rapid escalation underscores the growing public health challenge posed by RVF, a zoonotic disease spread by mosquitoes and contact with infected animals.The outbreak primarily impacts communities in the Saint-Louis region, were 75 of the confirmed cases have been identified, including 45 patients who have recovered. Isolated cases have also been reported in the Louga (2 cases) and Matam (1 recovered case) regions. The Ministry of Health is urging citizens to exercise heightened vigilance and adhere to preventative measures to curb further spread.
Rift Valley Fever is a viral disease that primarily affects animals, but can also infect humans.Symptoms in humans range from fever,muscle pain,and headache to more severe complications like hemorrhagic fever,encephalitis,and vision loss. Outbreaks ofen follow periods of heavy rainfall,creating ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes. The current surge highlights the vulnerability of Senegal‘s population and the importance of proactive disease surveillance and control efforts.
Alongside the RVF outbreak, the Ministry of Health also reported 5 confirmed cases of MPOX in the Dakar region sence August 22nd, with one patient having recovered. No deaths related to MPOX have been reported. The Ministry continues to emphasize the importance of collaboration between health workers, community relays, and the public to effectively manage both outbreaks.
Source: Youssouph Sané, Seneweb – Saturday, October 4, 2025
