Senegal has become the latest West African nation to battle multiple disease outbreaks at once, with Rift Valley Fever and Mpox testing the country’s health system and public preparedness.
Despite government containment efforts, many residents remain poorly informed about how the diseases spread or what precautions to take, gap that health experts warn could worsen the situation.
Thiane Faye, an international business student, criticized the slow pace of public communication. “Many people are unaware that these diseases have arrived in Dakar. It is urgent that the authorities step up their communication efforts,” she said.
Official figures highlight the scope of the outbreaks. Since the start of the epidemic, Senegal has recorded 277 Rift Valley Fever cases and 22 deaths, with the Saint-Louis region as the epicenter (240 cases). Other affected regions include Matam, Louga, Fatick, Dakar (2 cases), and Kaolack.
For Mpox, Dakar has reported 7 confirmed cases and 2 probable cases since August 22, 2025.
Health Minister Ibrahima Sy sought to reassure citizens on October 20, noting that RVF cases are declining in the hardest-hit areas and that the case fatality rate is improving. However, he stressed that “continued vigilance remains essential.”
The Ministry of Health also issued preventive guidelines. Citizens are urged to cook meat thoroughly, pasteurize milk, and handle raw animal products with care.
Authorities have called on the public to cooperate fully with health workers to limit the spread of both diseases, emphasizing that community participation is key to protecting the most vulnerable groups.
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