A new outbreak of Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) has been reported by the Ministry of Health and Social Action of Senegal in mid-January.
To date, there are two confirmed cases, including one death reported from the Kaffrine Department.
Seven other suspected cases were identified; however, they tested negative by PCR for CCHF. A total of 51 contacts have been identified.
Several sporadic outbreaks of CCHF have been previously reported across Senegal, including in the Kaffrine Region. The last known outbreak of CCHF was reported from the region in November 2024. Individuals involved in livestock farming, particularly those handling cattle, are at increased risk of infection from the tickborne viral disease.
The current CCHF outbreak in Senegal’s Kaffrine Region underscores the ongoing risk of zoonotic transmission, particularly among livestock handlers.