The dengue fever epidemic, whose first cases in Cape Verde were recorded late September, has been spreading steadily to reach 13,000 cases, including four deaths, particularly in the main Santiago Island, around the capital of Praia.
In a statement, IFRC said, "hospitals are full and the intensive care unit overw helmed by seriously ill patients.
"This is the first outbreak of dengue fever in Cape Verde and also the most significant epidemic recorded across West Africa."
It said the IFRC was preparing a financial package for Cape Verde Red Cross to help the country conduct and support prevention activities to eradicate the epidemic.
Dengue disease is caused by mosquito and its symptoms are similar to those of malaria: headache, fever, fatigue and severe muscle pain.
The dengue virus is transmitted to humans by the bite of infected female mosquitoes.
Senegal also confirmed, earlier this week, the existence of 19 cases of dengue fever in Dakar, Mbour and Louga.
Dakar - 11/11/2009
Pana
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