The Aedes albopictus mosquito, commonly known as the “tiger mosquito,” is wreaking havoc across Burkina Faso. Its rapid proliferation has triggered a significant outbreak of both dengue and chikungunya diseases.

According to an official government statement, “from January 1 to October 15, 2023, a total of 50,478 suspected dengue cases were reported, including 25,502 probable cases and 214 deaths.” The situation remains dire, with “10,117 suspected cases, including 4,377 probable cases and 48 deaths recorded from October 9 to 15 alone.”

This dengue epidemic continues to spread in Ouagadougou and Bobo-Dioulasso. The disease, which can range from mild flu-like symptoms to life-threatening complications, is accompanied by chikungunya, another mosquito-borne illness. Health Minister Robert Lucien Jean-Claude Kargougou reported over 200 chikungunya cases since September.

Containment strategies in place

Rising temperatures and intense rainfall have created ideal breeding conditions for tiger mosquitoes and the dengue virus. “To effectively address this health crisis, several measures have been implemented, including free rapid diagnostic tests in public health facilities,” explained the Minister of Health.

Additionally, a large-scale mosquito repellent spraying campaign has been launched in the two most affected cities. While Burkina Faso has recorded dengue cases since the 1960s, its first documented outbreak occurred in 2017, resulting in 13 deaths.

Understanding dengue fever

Transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito, much like malaria, dengue is a virus prevalent in tropical regions. It primarily affects urban and semi-urban areas, causing 100 to 400 million infections annually, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

Dengue symptoms include high fever, severe headaches, nausea, vomiting, muscle pain, and in severe cases, life-threatening hemorrhages. Early detection and preventive measures are crucial in controlling its spread.