World Health Organization: Cholera Outbreak Intensifies Worldwide
Follow-up
The World Health Organization announced on Friday a sharp increase in the cholera outbreak this year, with over 400,000 cases reported across 31 countries.
The organization confirmed that the epidemiological situation continues to deteriorate due to factors related to conflicts, poverty, mass displacement, natural disasters, and climate change, which have contributed to the spread of the disease, particularly in rural areas and flood-affected regions where poor infrastructure and limited access to healthcare slow down treatment.
According to the organization’s data, there have been 409,222 cases and 4,738 deaths worldwide since the beginning of the year up to August 17.
Although cases have decreased by 20% compared to the same period last year, the number of deaths has increased by 46%. The organization pointed out that six countries have a fatality rate exceeding 1%, reflecting significant gaps in case management and delays in receiving care. Cholera has re-emerged in countries that have not reported significant cases for years, such as the Republic of Congo and Chad, which have recorded the highest global death rates of 7.7% and 6.8%, respectively.
Sudan has been deemed the most affected country globally, with over 2,400 deaths reported in 17 out of 18 states, according to UNICEF.
It is noteworthy that cholera is often transmitted through the consumption of water or food contaminated with Vibrio cholerae bacteria, causing severe diarrhea that can lead to death within hours if not treated. However, rapid and effective rehydration of the patient allows for easy recovery.
