Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is a serious viral disease caused by a virus of the genus Nairovirus. It is transmitted mainly by ticks and, in some cases, by contact with infected blood or body fluids. CCHF is endemic in several parts of Africa. This study focuses on cases of CCHF in Senegal in 2023, and on the actions implemented to manage the epidemic.

A retrospective study was conducted to analyze the 2023 CCHF epidemic in Senegal. The Syndrome Sentinel Surveillance Network (4S Network) was used to detect cases. The reference laboratory used ELISA and PCR tests to confirm diagnoses, while the health emergency operations center coordinated the response using an incident management system (IMS) implemented at the national and regional level.

In 2023, Senegal reported 11 confirmed cases of CCHF in 7 regions, with a case fatality rate of 36.6%. The average time from symptom onset to laboratory diagnosis was 10 days, which sometimes led to delays in case management. Follow-up of 413 contacts was carried out, with no secondary cases identified. Preventive measures, including awareness-raising campaigns in high-risk areas, were also taken.

CCHF represents a persistent threat to public health in Senegal. Surveillance efforts, rapid detection, and the control measures put in place have proved essential in limiting transmission. The observed delays in diagnosis highlight the need to strengthen diagnostic capabilities and improve the responsiveness of the health care system, in particular via implementation of the 7-1-7 framework. Increased intersectoral collaboration is essential to improving containment of this emerging zoonosis.