Health authorities in Ifanadiana are seeking to reassure the public. Dr. Christophe Tsitohery, Regional Director of Public Health for Vatovavy, stated that the health emergency is under control following reports of 36 deaths—four in hospitals and 32 within communities—in Ampasinambo and Fasitsara. While the exact causes remain to be determined, medical teams are strengthening patient care and surveillance activities while awaiting results from samples sent to the Institut Pasteur de Madagascar.
In Ampasinambo, 31 patients are currently being treated, the majority of whom are children under five. Symptoms observed include fever, diarrhea, red eyes, and respiratory signs. While measles and malaria are suspected, no definitive diagnosis has been established. Samples have been sent to the Institut Pasteur, and epidemiological surveillance continues on the ground.
A delegation from the Ministry of Public Health, led by Minister Dr. Monira Managna, visited the site over the weekend to assess the situation and bolster the response. The health intervention has been reinforced with additional medication and the deployment of a multidisciplinary medical team, including pediatricians. Severe cases are receiving specialized care. Localized vaccination is being prepared, and community health workers have been mobilized to enhance monitoring.
The visit by health authorities, alongside local officials including the Member of Parliament for Ifanadiana who initially raised the alarm on social media, helped identify needs for medicine, infrastructure, and human resources. The official report confirms four hospital deaths and 14 community deaths in Ampasinambo, while 18 community deaths have been recorded in Fasitsara since June, bringing the total to 36 across both communes.
Captured & Published at: 2026-09-20 11:08:34 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.2424.mg/sante-publique-riposte-sanitaire-renforcee-a-ifanadiana-apres-le-signalement-de-dizaines-de-deces-en-attendant-les-resultats-des-analyses/