An awareness campaign and blood sampling campaign on Rift Valley fever was held this Monday, October 20, 2025, at the Parc des petits ruminants in Dalifort, under the chairmanship of the mayor of the commune and the sub-prefect of Pikine Dagoudane.

According to the chief medical officer of the Pikine health district, Dr. Fatou Ndour Faye, this operation is part of the national response to Rift Valley fever, a zoonosis that is transmitted from animals to humans.

"The epidemic is raging throughout the country, and it is essential to intervene in at-risk areas. The Pikine Small Ruminant Park accommodates livestock from across the country, and even from the sub-region. These animals are in constant contact with livestock farmers, making it a strategic hub for prevention," she explained.

Samples were taken from the animals to detect any possible spread of the virus. "This approach will improve prevention, in collaboration with livestock and environmental services, in the spirit of 'One Health,' that is, an integrated approach to animal, human, and environmental health," added Dr. Ndour Faye.

She also highlighted the establishment of a sentinel site and the permanent presence of a veterinary post, allowing breeders to quickly report any suspected cases for early diagnosis.

An initiative welcomed by local authorities

Mayor of Dalifort, Mamadou Mbengue, stated that this action represents a collective awakening to current health threats. "Health as a whole is being mobilized today. Our country is facing two epidemics: Mpox and Rift Valley fever. This framework is therefore the most appropriate way to raise awareness among those directly affected. What is remarkable is that the initiative comes from the departmental services themselves, aware of the urgency," he rejoices.

Present at the ceremony, the sub-prefect of Pikine Dagoudane, Amady Touré, praised the relevance of the initiative. "The park receives livestock from all over the sub-region. However, Rift Valley fever is transmitted from animals to humans. It was therefore imperative to raise awareness among the stakeholders who work there daily, so that they understand the causes and adopt the right reflexes."

For those working in the field, this campaign sends a strong signal.

"We are aware of the disease, but it is reassuring to see the health authorities come to us," says Mor Awa Ndao, a breeder in Dalifort.

"We will ensure that we report any suspected cases in order to protect our health and that of our animals," he added.

The current situation of Rift Valley fever in Senegal, according to the latest official reports published by the Ministry of Health and Public Hygiene, reports 211 confirmed cases, including 21 deaths and 162 recoveries.

The disease now affects six regions, with the Saint-Louis region as the main focus (193 cases recorded).

The response is based on the “One Health” strategy, which combines human, animal and environmental health efforts to stem the spread of the virus.