2006–2007 East Africa Rift Valley fever outbreak

Outbreak of Rift Valley fever in East Africa

2006–2007 East Africa Rift Valley fever outbreak

The 2006–2007 East Africa Rift Valley fever outbreak was a significant epidemic of Rift Valley fever (RVF) that affected several countries in East Africa, including Kenya, Somalia, and Tanzania. This outbreak was notable for its impact on both human and animal populations, leading to numerous deaths and economic losses.

Background

Lake Baringo, one of the affected areas

Rift Valley fever is a viral zoonosis that primarily affects animals but can also infect humans. The disease is caused by the Rift Valley fever virus, a member of the genus Phlebovirus in the family Phenuiviridae. RVF is transmitted to humans through contact with blood, body fluids, or tissues of infected animals, or through bites from infected mosquitoes.

The disease is endemic in sub-Saharan Africa, and outbreaks are often associated with periods of heavy rainfall, which increase mosquito populations. The 2006–2007 outbreak was preceded by unusually heavy rains attributed to the El Niño phenomenon, which created ideal breeding conditions for mosquitoes.

Outbreak

The outbreak began in late 2006 and continued into 2007, with the first cases reported in northeastern Kenya. The disease quickly spread to other regions, including southern Somalia and northern Tanzania. The outbreak was characterized by a high number of human cases and significant livestock mortality.

Human Impact

The outbreak resulted in over 1,000 human cases, with a case fatality rate of approximately 30%. Symptoms in humans ranged from mild flu-like symptoms to severe hemorrhagic fever, encephalitis, and death. The high mortality rate was partly due to the lack of awareness and delayed diagnosis and treatment.

Animal Impact

Boran cattle in Kenya, a region affected by the outbreak

The outbreak had a devastating impact on livestock, particularly sheep, goats, and cattle. Thousands of animals died, leading to significant economic losses for farmers and affecting food security in the region. The loss of livestock also had a cultural impact, as cattle are an important part of the social and economic fabric of many East African communities.

Response

The response to the outbreak involved a coordinated effort by local governments, international organizations, and non-governmental organizations. Measures included the distribution of mosquito nets, public health education campaigns, and the vaccination of livestock. The World Health Organization and the Food and Agriculture Organization provided technical support and resources to help control the outbreak.

Prevention and Control

Preventing future outbreaks of Rift Valley fever involves a combination of surveillance, vaccination, and vector control. Monitoring weather patterns and mosquito populations can help predict and prevent outbreaks. Vaccination of livestock is a key strategy in reducing the risk of transmission to humans.

Related pages

• Rift Valley fever
• Zoonosis
• Mosquito-borne disease
• El Niño