Confirmed Case of Mpox in Senegal: Situation Update (as of August 27, 2025) -

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Context and Detection

Senegal has reported its first case of mpox in 2025, detected in a foreign national who arrived in the country the previous week.

Patient’s Health Status

Health authorities report that the patient is in a stable clinical condition, placed in isolation, and receiving the necessary care.

Contact Tracing and Monitoring

At this time, no other cases have been detected. Authorities have initiated follow-up for 25 individuals identified as close contacts.

Characteristics of the Mpox Virus

Monkeypox (mpox) is a generally mild viral infection, although severe forms can occur in rare cases. It is primarily transmitted through close contact, including:

Direct contact with skin lesions;

Exchange of respiratory droplets;

Contaminated objects.

Typical symptoms include fever, headache, fatigue, and pustular skin lesions.

Global Context and Health Alert

In August 2024, the World Health Organization (WHO) once again declared mpox a Public Health Emergency of International Concern, in connection with an outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo and its spread to neighboring countries.

The case reported in Senegal falls within a context of heightened vigilance in West Africa, where health systems are fragile and cross-border movements are frequent.

Why Is This Detection Concerning?

1. Risk of Regional Spread

Since the patient is a foreign national, this highlights the importance of entry screening to prevent local dissemination.

2. Responsiveness of Senegalese Health Authorities

Rapid isolation of the patient and contact tracing demonstrate good response capacity.

3. Need for Sustained Surveillance

Monitoring the 25 contacts is crucial to control the situation and detect any potential new infections.

Outlook and Recommendations

For Senegalese and Local Authorities

Maintain active surveillance of contacts during the incubation period (usually 5 to 21 days).

Strengthen the capacity of health facilities for case management (diagnosis, isolation, treatment).

Inform the public about modes of transmission and symptoms of mpox to encourage rapid identification of potential cases.

For Travelers and International Stakeholders

Adapt screening measures at points of entry according to the regional situation.

Encourage cross-border cooperation to share epidemiological data.

Senegal is facing its first confirmed case of mpox in 2025, with the patient isolated and stable, and about 25 contacts under monitoring. While the situation is currently contained, vigilance remains essential, particularly in West Africa, where health systems are often under pressure.