The Senegal Ministry of Health (MOH) reported the first chikungunya cases of 2026. According to the MOH, six confirmed cases were reported the week ending June 13 from six regions. No deaths were reported.
The MOH is enforcing integrated vector control activities, which includes environmental sanitation, elimination of mosquito breeding sites, and community education on the use of insect repellents and bed nets in affected areas.
Last year, 10 cases were reported in the country.
Chikungunya disease is caused by the chikungunya virus and is spread to humans through mosquito bites. Outbreaks have occurred in countries in Africa, Americas, Asia, Europe, the Caribbean, and Indian and Pacific Oceans.
Most people infected with chikungunya virus develop some symptoms. Symptoms of chikungunya usually begin 3–7 days after a bite by an infected mosquito. The most common symptoms are fever and joint pain. Other symptoms may include headache, muscle pain, joint swelling, or rash. Most people get better within a week; however, some can have severe joint pain for months to years following acute illness.
People at risk for more severe disease include newborns infected around the time of birth, older adults (65 years or older), and people with medical conditions such as diabetes or heart disease. Death from chikungunya is rare.
There is no specific treatment for chikungunya.