By Horn Africa News
Mogadishu – The Federal Government of Somalia has announced a serious outbreak of dengue fever, locally known as Qawracato, affecting several regions across the country, including the capital, Mogadishu.
Speaking to state media, Somalia’s Minister of Health, Dr. Ali Haji Adam Ali, confirmed that the highest number of reported cases has been recorded in the Benadir region (Mogadishu), as well as in Puntland and Hirshabelle State.
“This outbreak is extremely concerning,” said the Minister. “We are seeing hundreds of people affected, and some have already lost their lives.”
Dr. Ali attributed the rapid spread of the disease to insufficient or incorrect vaccination coverage and limited public health resources to contain the virus effectively.
The minister emphasized that the situation is worsening and called for urgent public health interventions.
Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne viral disease that causes high fever, severe headaches, joint and muscle pain, and in extreme cases, internal bleeding and death.
The illness tends to spread rapidly in densely populated areas and during the rainy season, when mosquito breeding intensifies.
The Ministry of Health is expected to release further updates as it works to control the outbreak and provide treatment to those affected.
