Fast-rising cholera cases are causing alarm across war-torn Sudan, prompting concerns from the United Nations. According to Sudan’s health ministry, there has been a nearly 40% increase in cholera cases in less than two weeks, spanning 11 out of the country’s 18 states. The UN health officials have expressed worry over the outbreak and the inadequate response since it was first reported in July.
As of the latest report on Monday, there have been 21,288 cholera cases and 626 deaths. This significant surge from the previous count of 15,577 cases and 506 deaths on September 26 is primarily concentrated in the eastern states, with the most cases reported in Kassala. Efforts are underway in collaboration with UNICEF and the World Health Organization (WHO) to conduct a second round of oral cholera vaccination in response to the outbreak.
WHO’s regional emergency director, Richard Brennan, highlighted the rapid increase in cases, stating a faster spread rate compared to the previous year’s outbreak. Cholera was officially declared an outbreak on August 12, with the disease intensifying in areas affected by heavy rainfall and flooding, particularly in eastern Sudan where conflict-displaced populations reside.
Cholera, a highly contagious disease causing severe dehydration through diarrhoea, can be fatal without immediate treatment. UNICEF has delivered vaccines to Sudan and plans to administer more doses in affected states. The effectiveness of the vaccination campaign is being monitored with plans to expand vaccine distribution in the coming weeks.
Health officials emphasise the need for comprehensive strategies beyond vaccinations, including disease surveillance, patient treatment, community engagement, and ensuring access to clean water and sanitation. The health system in Sudan is described as in “freefall,” with a majority of health facilities in Khartoum non-operational, exacerbating the crisis.
The conflict between the Sudanese military and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has significantly impacted the country, with widespread violence displacing millions and leading to casualties. The ongoing war has further strained the health system and intensified the cholera outbreak, necessitating urgent humanitarian intervention to address the escalating crisis.