Mauritania reports 15 deaths, 202 infections in diphtheria outbreak

Mauritania has reported 15 deaths and 202 infections from a diphtheria outbreak in the southeastern regions of Hodh Ech Chargui, Hodh El Gharbi, and Assaba. Forty-one patients remain hospitalized, while others have recovered. Health officials say the situation is under control, with rapid response teams deployed and surveillance strengthened at borders and health centres. Authorities have also delayed the school year in affected areas. Diphtheria, a highly contagious bacterial infection, has re-emerged in Mauritania, which also recorded cases in 2023 and 2024.

Mauritania has reported an outbreak of diphtheria that has led to 15 deaths and 202 confirmed infections in the southeastern part of the country. The Health Ministry, in a statement released on Monday, said that the infections were detected across three regions — Hodh Ech Chargui, Hodh El Gharbi, and Assaba. The ministry further disclosed that among the recorded fatalities, seven were reported in the Assaba region while eight occurred in Hodh El Gharbi.

According to the Health Ministry, a total of 41 patients are currently receiving medical treatment in hospitals, while the remaining individuals who had been infected have recovered. Health officials assured the public that the outbreak is being closely monitored and effectively managed.

The ministry noted that the situation is “under control,” emphasizing that rapid response teams have already been deployed to the most affected areas to contain the spread of the disease. In addition, the government has strengthened epidemiological surveillance at border crossings and local health centres to quickly detect and respond to any new cases.

As part of preventive measures, authorities have recommended delaying the start of the new school year in the affected regions, since the outbreak coincides with the reopening of schools scheduled for Monday. This decision, they explained, is intended to minimize the risk of further infections among children and school staff.

Diphtheria is a highly contagious bacterial infection that primarily affects the throat and tonsils, making it difficult for patients to breathe or swallow. It is caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae, a bacterium that releases toxins capable of causing severe illness or even death if left untreated. While the infection most commonly affects the respiratory system, the World Health Organization (WHO) explains that skin infections caused by the same bacteria are a less frequent manifestation of the disease.

Mauritania has previously faced challenges with diphtheria outbreaks. In both 2023 and 2024, the country recorded dozens of cases, especially in the Hodh Ech Chargui and Gorgol regions. These recurring outbreaks have underscored the need for continuous vaccination campaigns, improved public health awareness, and stronger disease surveillance systems.

Health experts say that early detection, vaccination, and timely medical intervention are key to controlling diphtheria outbreaks. The Health Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to protecting citizens through vaccination drives, community sensitization, and prompt medical care for affected patients, assuring that all necessary steps are being taken to prevent the situation from escalating.