Dengue outbreak in Mali: what you need to know about this mosquito-borne disease

Health services in Mali are on full alert as dengue fever, a debilitating disease transmitted by infected mosquitoes, has been detected in the country. While often mistaken for malaria due to similar symptoms, this mosquito-borne illness can lead to severe complications if left untreated.

Currently, 12 confirmed cases have been recorded in Bamako and the districts of Kalaban Coro and Koulikoro. According to Kalif Keita, Deputy Director General of Public Health and Hygiene, “most cases involve adult men.”

Has Mali faced dengue outbreaks before?

This isn’t Mali’s first encounter with dengue. The disease was first detected in the country in 2008. Since then, it has resurfaced in 2017 and 2019. Following the dengue outbreak in neighboring Burkina Faso earlier this year, Malian authorities have strengthened surveillance measures.

However, data on dengue outbreaks in Mali and other African nations remains limited. Experts attribute this to diagnostic challenges and the overlapping symptoms with malaria, which often leads to misdiagnosis.

How to protect yourself from dengue fever

• Use insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus
• Wear protective clothing such as long sleeves and pants, especially during dawn and dusk
• Eliminate mosquito breeding sites by removing standing water from containers around your home
• Use mosquito nets when sleeping, particularly in areas with known dengue transmission
• Stay in well-screened or air-conditioned rooms if possible

Travelers to Mali should take extra precautions, as should residents returning from affected areas. Vigilance and preventive measures are crucial to curb the spread of this disease.