Abstract
OBJECTIVES: Several epidemic outbreaks have affected the Zinder region. These include diseases targeted by the expanded immunization program and other emerging diseases. This study aimed to analyze these epidemics. METHODS: This is documentary research of the epidemics of meningitis, measles, cholera, COVID-19, and diphtheria, which occurred in the Zinder region from 2015 to 2023, as well as their determinants. The data collection is made from the linear list of notifiable diseases of the Regional Directorate of Health and Public Hygiene of Zinder, associated with literature review on the determinants of the appearance of these epidemics. RESULTS: The number of meningitis cases has gradually increased in Zinder from 2019 to 2024. A total of 5019 cases were registered during these epidemics, with a mortality rate of 6.31%. Five measles epidemics have been recorded since 2015. A total of 13,887 cases were notified during these epidemics, with a mortality rate of 0.30%. Three cholera epidemics occurred: in 2021, in 2022, and in 2024. During these epidemics, 884 cases were recorded, with 24 deaths or a lethality of 2.71%. The COVID-19 epidemic occurred in 2020, with 364 cases, including 17 deaths, i.e. a mortality rate of 4.67%. Since 2022, the region has been facing a diphtheria epidemic. A total of 3310 cases has been reported, with 173 deaths. The causes of these epidemics are multifaceted; they involve the decline in vaccination coverage, migration, insecurity, the COVID-19 pandemic, and climate change. CONCLUSIONS: The impact of epidemics on the health of the population and the socio-economic development of regions implies a greater mastery of the root causes mentioned in this study.