00:00Senegal's health authorities have confirmed 17 deaths in what is being described as a major outbreak of Rift Valley Fever, RVF, the country's worst in decades.
00:11According to Dr. Boli Diop, head of RVF surveillance at the Ministry of Health, 119 cases have been recorded since the outbreak was declared on September 21, mostly in northern livestock-producing regions.
00:26Rift Valley Fever is a mosquito-borne viral disease that primarily affects livestock, such as cattle, goats, and sheep.
00:35Humans can become infected through mosquito bites or contact with infected animals, particularly during slaughter or birthing.
00:43While most cases are mild, severe infections can cause brain inflammation, eye damage, or hemorrhagic fever, which can be fatal.
00:53The World Health Organization warns that herders, farmers, and slaughterhouse workers are most at risk.
01:00Experts say climate change without a need in heavy rains and hot weather is creating ideal breeding conditions from mosquitoes, increasing the likelihood of outbreaks.
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