(MENAFN) A major diphtheria outbreak in the southeast of Mauritania has led to 15 deaths and 202 infections, the Health Ministry confirmed on Monday.

The cases have been concentrated in the regions of Hodh Ech Chargui, Hodh El Gharbi, and Assaba. Of the fatalities, seven were reported in Assaba and eight in Hodh El Gharbi, the ministry stated.

In addition, 41 individuals remain hospitalized, receiving medical care, while the majority of the infected patients have recovered.

Despite the alarming numbers, the ministry reassured the public that the situation is "under control." Rapid response teams have been dispatched to the worst-hit areas, and enhanced epidemiological surveillance is being carried out at key border points and health centers.

In response to the outbreak's timing, authorities have advised delaying the start of the academic year in the affected regions, which coincides with the reopening of schools on Monday.

Diphtheria, a highly contagious bacterial disease, primarily impacts the throat and tonsils. It is caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae, which releases toxins capable of causing severe health complications. Skin infections, though less common, are also a known manifestation of the disease, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

This is not the first diphtheria surge in the region; Mauritania has seen several dozen cases in 2023 and 2024, especially in the Hodh Ech Chargui and Gorgol regions.

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