Mauritania has reported 15 deaths and 202 infections from a diphtheria outbreak concentrated in three southeastern regions, the Health Ministry said on Monday.
Infections were recorded in Hodh Ech Chargui, Hodh El Gharbi and Assaba, with seven deaths in Assaba and eight in Hodh El Gharbi, the ministry said in a statement. Forty-one patients remain hospitalised, while the rest have recovered, it added.
Authorities said the situation was under control, citing the deployment of rapid response teams, reinforced surveillance at health centres and border points, and recommendations to delay the school year in affected areas.
Diphtheria, a vaccine-preventable bacterial disease that can cause severe respiratory illness and death, has resurged in parts of Africa amid gaps in immunisation coverage.