Chad makes dengue treatment free to manage rising outbreak

Prime Minister Allah Maye Halina announced that the government of Chad will provide free consultations, laboratory tests, and care for dengue patients in all public health facilities.

This measure aims to address a growing epidemic that is currently overwhelming the capacity of several hospitals in the country. The ministry of Health reported that authorities identified 5,521 suspected cases and 353 confirmed cases of the viral infection as of 2 November 2026.

To manage the surge of patients, the government ordered the installation of extra beds and medical tents at university hospitals. Officials also planned a special week of sanitation to remove stagnant water where mosquitoes breed. The response includes disinfecting airplanes and public buses. The government is launching a national mobilization campaign involving local authorities and civil society organizations to spread awareness. The dengue virus is primarily spread by mosquitoes of the Aedes genus and can cause fever and muscle pain.