The Ministry of Public Health has dispatched teams to Ifanadiana, where several isolated communes are affected by an epidemic that has already claimed thirty-six lives.
According to the ministry, eighteen deaths were recorded in Fasintsara between July and August, while another eighteen were reported in Ampasinambo during September, including fourteen within the community and four in a health facility.
Malaria and measles are suspected to be the causes. Test results from four children under five in Ampasinambo, collected during a visit by Minister of Public Health Dr. Monira Magnana, reportedly tested positive for measles, and rapid diagnostic tests for malaria were also positive. Professor Mamy Randria, an infectious disease specialist who accompanied the minister, observed symptoms including fever, flu-like signs, skin rashes, eye redness, and diarrhea among patients.
As of September 19, sixty-four suspected cases have been recorded in Ampasinambo. The ministry has deployed healthcare professionals, including pediatricians and emergency doctors, and is using drones to deliver medication due to the area’s inaccessibility.
These communes are located 145 km from Ifanadiana and are only accessible by motorcycle via difficult mountain trails, making travel time up to two days. This geographic isolation, combined with a low vaccination coverage rate, poses a significant challenge to the healthcare system, as many residents prefer traditional healers over distant health centers.
Captured & Published at: 2026-09-21 05:53:46 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/09/ifanadiana-une-epidemie-non-identifiee.html