Burkina Faso: Government prepares for potential malaria and dengue outbreaks

Event

Authorities in Burkina Faso are preparing for a spike in cases of mosquito-borne diseases during this year's rainy season (which runs annually from May to September in Burkina Faso). Learning from last year's dengue outbreak, the government is dedicating significant resources to preparing the country for the resurgence of dengue and malaria. Among the efforts is a move to pre-position necessary medication in all 13 regions of the country. Reports say urban areas, including Ouagadougou, are most at risk for infection.

Context

Symptoms of malaria include fever, chills, headache, nausea, and body aches. Early symptoms usually appear between ten and 15 days after the contaminating mosquito bite. There is no vaccine but preventive medications are available. Pregnant women, HIV-positive persons, children under the age of five, and the elderly are particularly vulnerable.

Symptoms of classic dengue fever include fever, headache, muscle and joint pain, fatigue, nausea, and rash. Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF) is a potentially deadly complication that is characterized by high fever, enlargement of the liver, and hemorrhaging.

Advice

To minimize the risk of contracting malaria, dengue, or any other mosquito-borne diseases present in Burkina Faso, use insect repellent, wear covering clothing, and sleep under mosquito netting or in an air-conditioned room. If you develop a high fever or other symptoms during or after travel in areas affected by malaria, seek immediate medical attention.