The Senegalese Ministry of Health and Public Hygiene has released an update on the country's diphtheria outbreak, revealing 456 confirmed cases across 60 health districts in 13 regions as of November 1, 2026. The ministry reported no new fatalities, bringing the total death toll to 14. Diphtheria remains a significant concern for health authorities in Senegal. The ministry's press release, published on November 2, 2026, highlighted the widespread nature of the outbreak.
The geographical distribution of cases shows that Dakar has the highest number of infections, with 61 reported cases. Other affected regions include Kaolack with 58 cases, Thiès with 51, Diourbel with 48, Louga with 47, and Matam with 42. Tambacounda and Kédougou have reported 39 and 37 cases, respectively. The disease is also present in Kolda, Saint-Louis, Ziguinchor, Fatick, and Kaffrine, with 22, 16, 14, 11, and 10 cases, respectively.
Several health districts are experiencing a significant number of infections. In Dakar, Guédiawaye has reported 11 cases, while Keur Massar and Dakar-Nord have 10 and 9 cases, respectively. In Kaolack, Ndoffane has 27 cases, and Nioro du Rip has 23. Louga's Darou Mousty district has 26 cases, and in Diourbel, Touba alone accounts for 36 cases. Kédougou's district of the same name has 27 cases.
The Ministry of Health emphasizes that diphtheria is a preventable disease through vaccination. Symptoms include a sore throat, fever, difficulty swallowing, hoarseness, and neck swelling. In some cases, grayish membranes appear in the throat, accompanied by breathing difficulties. Health authorities urge parents to adhere to the Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI) vaccination schedule and check their children's vaccination status.
To limit the spread of the disease, the ministry recommends administering any missing vaccine doses and seeking medical attention promptly at the nearest healthcare facility if symptoms appear. The ministry warns against self-medication, which could delay treatment. With 456 confirmed cases and 14 deaths, vigilance remains essential in controlling the outbreak.
The ministry's response to the situation includes epidemiological surveillance, adherence to the vaccination schedule, and prompt treatment. These measures are crucial in slowing the spread of the disease. The situation remains a concern for Senegalese health authorities, who continue to monitor and respond to the outbreak.
The Senegalese government and health authorities continue to work to contain the diphtheria outbreak. The public is urged to take necessary precautions, including vaccination and prompt medical attention if symptoms appear. The situation will continue to be monitored, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
Key points
- The Senegalese Ministry of Health reports 456 confirmed diphtheria cases and 14 deaths across 13 regions as of November 1, 2026.
- Diphtheria is a preventable disease through vaccination, and health authorities urge parents to adhere to the Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI) vaccination schedule.
- The ministry recommends prompt medical attention at the nearest healthcare facility if symptoms appear and warns against self-medication.
