Kongoussi — The Kongoussi health district reported a significant increase in severe acute respiratory infections (SARI), with 231 cases and two deaths recorded during the 24th week of epidemiological surveillance. The announcement came from Dr. Arzouma Idrissa Ouédraogo, the chief doctor of the health district, during a provincial epidemic prevention committee meeting on June 29, 2024.
According to Burkina Information Agency, these respiratory infections, characterized by severe coughing, typically surge during the colder months and primarily affect children. The health district is advising caregivers to take extra precautions to protect children during the harmattan season. The report contrasts with the previous year’s figures, where 15 deaths were recorded out of 259 cases. In response to the ongoing health concerns, local health authorities have also implemented strategies to combat dengue alongside their efforts to manage SARI outbreaks.