Diphtheria in Senegal: 114 confirmed cases and 11 deaths in 31 health districts across the country

The diphtheria epidemic continues to mobilize Senegalese health authorities. As of September 20, 2026, 114 confirmed cases have been recorded in 31 health districts spread across 12 regions of the country, with 11 deaths recorded, according to the latest situation report from the Ministry of Health and Public Hygiene.

The Kédougou region has the highest number of cases with 33 infections. The Kédougou district has 23, compared to 8 in Saraya and 2 in Salémata.

The Louga region comes next with 16 cases, distributed between Darou-Mousty (8), Kébémer (6), Sakal (1) and Louga (1).

In Dakar, 15 cases have been confirmed. They are recorded in Guédiawaye (7), Keur Massar (3), Dakar-Ouest (1), Dakar-Nord (1), Dakar-Sud (1), Pikine (1) and Sangalkam (1).

The Diourbel region has 13 cases, including 12 in Touba and 1 in Mbacké. The Thiès region also has 12 cases, with 11 in Mbour and 1 in Thiadiaye.

In the Matam region, 6 cases have been recorded: 5 in the Matam district and 1 in Thilogne. Tambacounda has 5 cases, including 4 in Bakel and 1 in Dianké Makha. The Kaolack region also has 5 cases, distributed between Guinguinéo (2), Ndoffane (2) and Kaolack (1).

In Kolda, the four recorded cases are located in the Vélingara district. Saint-Louis has two cases, one in Saint-Louis and one in Dagana. Ziguinchor has two cases, one in Ziguinchor and one in Bignona.

Finally, the Fatick region has one case, recorded in Foundiougne.

In total, the sum of the cases by region gives 114 cases: Kédougou (33), Louga (16), Dakar (15), Diourbel (13), Thiès (12), Matam (6), Tambacounda (5), Kaolack (5), Kolda (4), Saint-Louis (2), Ziguinchor (2) and Fatick (1).

It should be noted that diphtheria is an infectious and contagious disease, but it can be prevented by vaccination. Health authorities urge parents to check their children's vaccination status and to administer any missing doses according to the Expanded Program on Immunization schedule.