The Chadian government decided on Monday, November 2, 2026, in N’Djamena to make dengue treatment free of charge in all public health facilities, in response to an epidemic peak that is putting several hospitals under pressure.
The measure covers medical consultations, laboratory tests, and care. It is intended to allow patients to access diagnosis and treatment without upfront payment in public facilities, according to announcements from the Prime Minister’s Office relayed by the National Office of Audiovisual Media and the Chadian Press and Publishing Agency.
The authorities have also ordered the installation of medical tents and additional beds in university hospital centers. A special sanitation week will be dedicated to the elimination of stagnant water and larval breeding sites, while airplanes and public transport must undergo systematic insecticide treatment.
Prime Minister Allah Maye Halina established these measures during a meeting bringing together the relevant ministries, professional health orders, the administrative authorities of N’Djamena, the defense and security forces, as well as health experts. The government also announced a national mobilization involving the media, local communities, and civil society organizations.
The decision comes ten days after an initial interministerial meeting dedicated to the epidemic. On October 22, the Prime Minister’s office reported 3,846 suspected cases across six provinces, including 299 confirmed cases and 11 deaths. The areas mentioned at that time were Ennedi West, Batha, N’Djamena, Ouaddaï, Sila, and Wadi-Fira.
A situation report previously published by the African office of the World Health Organization had recorded 252 confirmed cases and eight deaths. It had also reported the identification of serotype DENV-2, information used by response teams to adapt surveillance and case management.
Dengue is a viral infection primarily transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito. The WHO states that there is no specific treatment, although early care reduces the risk of complications and allows for symptom management.
The organization recommends seeking medical advice promptly in case of indicative symptoms, resting, and drinking enough fluids. It advises using paracetamol to relieve pain and discourages aspirin as well as ibuprofen, which can increase the risk of bleeding.
