Senegal confirmed its first death from Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) on Thursday, according to official sources.
Dr. Mbaye Thiam, the regional health director, reported that one of two confirmed cases of the fever resulted in death in the Kaffrine region in central Senegal. Meanwhile, the other patient is showing signs of improvement.
“The health district in Birkelane identified two cases of Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever. One patient has died, while the other is recovering,” Dr. Thiam said in a statement relayed by the Senegalese Press Agency.
Health authorities have identified 51 individuals who had contact with the infected patients. The contacts are currently under close monitoring by medical teams.
Officials have urged the public to remain calm and seek medical attention at the first sign of symptoms to ensure early treatment.
Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever is a viral disease carried by wild and domestic animals. It spreads to humans through tick bites or direct contact with the blood or tissue of infected animals. Senegal reported its first case of the disease in late April 2023.