Senegal Confirms 119 Cases of Rift Valley Fever in Ongoing Outbreak
As of October 8th,, 2025, 119 confirmed cases of Rift Valley Fever (RVF) have been reported by the Ministry of Health in Senegal. Most cases have come from the northern districts of Saint-Louis and Richard Toll. Several people have died. The disease was first noted in late September.
The northern area was also affected during an outbreak of RVF in 2013-14. Human cases were reported and more than 50 animals tested positive for the disease. The outbreak was more widespread, and it was suggested it was due to the movement of animals during the festive season of Eid el Kebir.
In West Africa, it is most likely to occur during the wet season (June to October).
What is Rift Valley fever?
Rift Valley fever (RVF) is a viral disease commonly seen in domesticated animals such as cattle, sheep, goats and camels.
Most human infections result from direct contact with the tissues and organs of infected animals, but it can be transmitted to humans by mosquitoes and flies - see vector-borne disease.
It can also be acquired through ingesting unpasteurized milk of infected animals.
The disease has not been shown to pass from person to person.
Rift Valley fever can range from a mild flu-like illness to severe haemorrhagic fever resulting in death. It is more an occupational risk for herders, slaughterhouse workers and veterinarians.
The virus was first identified in the Rift Valley of Kenya in the early 1930’s. Major outbreaks have occurred in Egypt, Sudan and West Africa. In 2000, it was reported for the first time outside of Africa in Yemen and Saudi Arabia.
An outbreak of RVF (Rift Valley Fever) occurred in Mauritania in 2020. There were 78 reported cases and 25 deaths. Cattle and camels were affected.
Is Rift Valley fever a risk to travellers?
The overall risk to travellers of Rift Valley fever is very low, particularly for those who avoid contact with livestock and protect against mosquito bites.
Expatriate and humanitarian workers in the agricultural sector, in areas of risk, should be aware of the disease. Risk is greatest during outbreaks.
Individuals should take extra precautions if spending time in outdoor areas at night during an outbreak of the disease.
