Senegal is grappling with a expanding diphtheria outbreak that has affected 13 of the country’s medical regions, claiming 14 lives and infecting 456 people across 60 health districts since the start of the health crisis.
Official epidemiological data released by the Ministry of Health and Public Hygiene, covering the situation as of November 1, 2026, reveals a broad geographical distribution, with high concentrations of cases reported in Kaolack (58), Thiès (51), Diourbel (48), Louga (47), Matam (42), and the capital region of Dakar, which has registered 61 cases across its health districts. Other affected areas include Tambacounda (39), Kédougou (37), Kolda (22), Saint-Louis (16), Ziguinchor (14), Fatick (11), and Kaffrine (10). Despite the wider geographic footprint, health authorities confirmed that no new fatalities were recorded in the latest update.
In response to the surge, the Ministry of Health stressed that while diphtheria is highly contagious, it remains entirely preventable through routine immunization. Public health officials are urging parents to review and update their children’s vaccination schedules under the Expanded Programme on Immunisation (EPI). Authorities strongly warn against self-medication and advise immediate consultation at healthcare facilities upon observing symptoms such as sore throat, fever, neck swelling, or greyish membranes in the throat. To support public response efforts, the ministry has activated a toll-free line (800 00 50 50) alongside emergency hotlines 1919 and 1515 for inquiries and reporting.
TE/Sf/lb/abj/APA