Senegal Records 11 Deaths in Rift Valley Fever Outbreak

Senegal has reported 11 deaths from Rift Valley fever out of 78 confirmed cases since the disease was first detected on 21 September in the northern Saint-Louis region,the Health and Public Hygiene Ministry announced over last week-end. Authorities have called on the public to remain vigilant,adhere strictly to preventive measures,and support health workers and volunteers in efforts to contain the outbreak.

The Health minister,accompanied by the minister of Agriculture and livestock,travelled to Saint-Louis following a regional epidemic management meeting in Louga to assess the situation. Rift Valley fever,which spreads to humans through mosquito bites or contact with the blood or bodily fluids of infected animals,presents symptoms such as fever,muscle pain and headaches. In severe cases,the disease can be fatal.