The current hepatitis outbreak in Diffa, declared last April by the Nigerien authorities, is particularly affecting pregnant women, with 186 hospitalised at the maternal and paediatric health centre in Diffa town and 34 who have died between January and 11 June 2017. During the same period, a total of 876 cases have been detected.

MSF has been working in coordination with the Ministry of Health to contain the outbreak. The organisation is supporting the training of health staff and dedicating human and material resources in the community, and at health centres and hospitals to ensure early detection of cases, referral to health facilities and adequate case management of patients. Mental health support and psychoeducational sessions are being provided for patients being treated for the hepatitis E virus. At the same time, MSF teams are conducting awareness campaigns on hygiene measures at community level and in health facilities. MSF has also reinforced its water and sanitation activities at 11 sites, with the the distribution of new jerry cans and the collection of the old ones, the chlorination of water, and distribution of soap as well as hygiene kits for individuals and the community, that includes things such as disinfectant.