Senegal has launched a nationwide response to a Rift Valley fever outbreak. Officials announced the campaign at a press conference on Monday 20 October in Dakar. The response brings together the ministries of health, agriculture, environment and water resources to protect people and animals.
Since the outbreak began in September, the government has activated epidemic management committees, increased case detection and treatment, and started livestock vaccination campaigns. Mosquito control work includes destroying breeding sites, using impregnated nets and using drones to find stagnant water. A communication campaign in local languages informs markets, villages and farming areas. Surveillance is stronger in regions such as Saint-Louis, Matam, Louga, Thiès and Tambacounda.
Difficult words
- outbreak — a sudden increase in disease cases.
- campaign — an organized effort to achieve something.
- vaccination — a shot that protects against disease.
- mosquitoes — small flying insects that can bite.
- symptoms — signs that indicate illness.
- treating — giving medical care to someone.
- health — the state of being free from illness.
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Why is it important to control diseases like RVF?
- How can vaccination help prevent outbreaks?
- What role do health workers play in managing diseases?
Related articles
How mangroves survive saltwater
Scientists studied mangrove trees to learn why some plants tolerate repeated saltwater flooding. They found small cells and thicker cell walls help mangroves stay strong in salty, waterlogged conditions and suggest this could help make crops more salt-tolerant.
Plague and the role of human fleas in Madagascar
The plague is still endemic in some countries, including Madagascar. Researchers found that the human flea Pulex irritans contributes to outbreaks and that household conditions and insecticide use influence flea levels and control efforts.
New drug pair helps fight rifampicin-resistant tuberculosis
Scientists paired rifampicin with a probe called AAP-SO2 that binds bacterial RNA polymerase at a different site and slows transcription. The pair killed resistant mutants in culture and was especially effective in a rabbit model.
After-work invitations can help some employees but harm others
New research shows after-work invitations often make socially confident employees feel connected, while shy workers can feel pressure and anxiety. Authors advise people to know their limits and for coworkers to think before inviting.
Women, Forests and COP30: RADD's Forest Immersion in Cameroon
During COP30 in Belém (10–21 November 2025) RADD held a forest immersion on 17 November 2025 in Cameroon. The event connected women, local forest knowledge and global climate debates and included training, planting and exchanges.