Fight against Diphtheria: Kédougou strengthens the response against the epidemic

A 60-day emergency project was launched yesterday in Kédougou to strengthen vaccination, raise awareness and improve early detection of diphtheria cases. Supported by the Start Network fund, this initiative supports actions already undertaken by the State.

Chairing the launch meeting, the prefect of Kédougou, El Hadji Malick Sémou Diouf, underlined the importance of mobilizing stakeholders and communities to curb the spread of the disease, cases of which have been confirmed in the region since August. He also invited people to quickly contact health facilities in the event of suspicious signs.

Implemented by Kédougou Supervision and Orientation of Human Development (KEOH), in collaboration with health authorities, the project covers five regions of Senegal, including Kédougou, Dakar, Louga, Thiès and Diourbel.

According to Djaliba Tandian, manager of KEOH, the intervention aims to fill resource gaps and support the activities planned by the health services. Around a hundred community relays will be identified, trained and supported to increase awareness.

The project also provides support for mobile vaccination teams to check the vaccination status of children and complete missing doses, including for those who have not yet been vaccinated. The aim is to strengthen prevention and help stop the spread of diphtheria.