Senegal intensifies fight against malaria during rainy season
Summary and headline written by AI from the source article. How we work
Senegalese health authorities are strengthening efforts to combat malaria as the rainy season begins.
Officials launched the “Hivernage 2026: zero palu, I commit” campaign on September 12, bringing together authorities, partners, and community representatives. Minister of Health and Public Hygiene, Dr. Ibrahima Sy, led the ceremony with collaboration from ministries focused on culture, crafts, tourism, communication, and institutional relations. The campaign responds to declining malaria rates in Senegal.
Data presented at the launch showed malaria incidence fell from 22.8 cases per 1,000 inhabitants in 2024 to 12.8 cases per 1,000 in 2025. During the same period, malaria-related deaths decreased from 312 to 150. Despite these improvements, health officials plan to maintain vigilance, especially in areas where malaria remains common. They will focus attention on localities including Kolda, Tambacounda, Kédougou, Kaolack, and Touba.
Preventative measures for the 2026 rainy season include distributing insecticide-treated bed nets, educating the public, focusing on child protection, and providing rapid testing and treatment. Senegal has 73 of its 79 health districts working toward malaria pre-elimination.
