Yellow fever epidemic in Senegal

Preliminary findings based on clinical reports and serological tests have confirmed an ongoing outbreak of Yellow Fever (YF) in Touba (Mbaké Department, Senegal, West Africa, 160 km east of Dakar). Twelve individuals with symptoms consistent with YF tested positive for specific IgM and IgG. The first suspected case was reported on 8 September 2002 in the inner city. Specific actions have been taken by the Senegalese Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the World Health Organization and the Pasteur Institute in Dakar. These include vector control, a mass vaccination campaign of the population of Touba and surrounding area, and strengthening YF surveillance. The estimated population of Touba is 800 000 inhabitants.