Senegal’s Ministry of Health has announced that the country is currently facing “two simultaneous epidemics” — monkeypox and Rift Valley fever.
According to the ministry’s statement, no deaths have been reported from monkeypox since the first case was detected on August 22. Five cases have been recorded in Dakar region, with one patient recovered, one still under treatment, and 52 contacts under monitoring.
As for Rift Valley fever, 28 confirmed cases have been reported in Saint-Louis since September 21, resulting in eight deaths. Ninety more people showing symptoms are also under observation.
The ministry said it will strengthen cross-sector partnerships, reinforce epidemiological surveillance systems, intensify public communication, and boost community involvement in the response.
Monkeypox is a viral disease marked by fever and skin rash, while Rift Valley fever is a viral zoonotic disease transmitted through contact with infected animals or mosquito bites.
