Zika Virus risk in Dakar

Zika virus is a mosquito-borne disease transmitted primarily by Aedes mosquitoes. Most infected people experience mild symptoms—fever, rash, joint pain, and red eyes—but infection during pregnancy can cause serious birth defects. There is no vaccine or specific treatment; prevention centers on avoiding mosquito bites.

Dakar’s risk score of 57/100 reflects several local factors: a hot, humid climate that supports year-round Aedes breeding; frequent standing water in construction sites, discarded containers, and drainage areas; dense urban neighborhoods with limited waste management; and heavy evening and early morning outdoor activity that increases exposure.

5 actionable steps to reduce your risk in Dakar:

1. Eliminate standing water around your home. Empty, scrub, or cover buckets, tires, flower pots, and water storage containers at least twice weekly to prevent mosquito breeding.

2. Use EPA-registered insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus on exposed skin, especially during early morning and late afternoon when Aedes mosquitoes are most active.

3. Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and socks to reduce skin exposure. Light-colored clothing may help you spot mosquitoes more easily.

4. Use mosquito nets and screen doors and windows. Sleep under a bed net if your room is not fully screened, and consider indoor residual spraying with approved insecticides.

5. Protect pregnant women and partners. If you are pregnant or planning pregnancy, avoid unnecessary exposure to mosquito-prone areas, and practice safe sex or abstinence to reduce sexual transmission risk.

Seek medical care promptly if you develop fever, rash, joint pain, or red eyes after a mosquito bite. Inform your healthcare provider about any recent travel or local exposure in Dakar and follow their guidance for testing and monitoring.