Cholera Epidemic Declared in Sudan Amid Ongoing Crises
The Sudanese Minister of Health, Haitham Ibrahim, announced a cholera epidemic in the country on Saturday, coinciding with heavy rains and the worsening humanitarian crisis caused by ongoing conflicts. The epidemic has emerged as thousands of displaced individuals flee the fighting between the army and the Rapid Support Forces, which has been ongoing since April 2023.
Minister Ibrahim stated that the cholera outbreak is a direct result of environmental conditions and unsafe drinking water in various locations. Following laboratory tests that confirmed the presence of the cholera microbe, the government, along with United Nations agencies and health experts, officially declared the epidemic. The eastern states of Kassala and Gedaref have been identified as the most affected regions, although the exact number of cases has not yet been disclosed.
In recent weeks, heavy rains have exacerbated the situation, leading to further displacement and a surge in waterborne diseases, particularly diarrhea among children. Authorities in Kassala are urgently calling for international assistance to combat the epidemic and provide relief to those affected. Cholera, caused by the ingestion of contaminated food or water, can lead to severe dehydration and death within hours if not treated promptly.
- Cholera is a severe diarrheal disease caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae, which thrives in unsanitary conditions. The disease is highly contagious and can spread rapidly in areas with inadequate water treatment and sanitation facilities. The World Health Organization reported alarming statistics, with over 307,000 cholera cases and more than 2,300 deaths across 26 countries from the beginning of the year until late July. This current outbreak in Sudan highlights the urgent need for improved public health measures and access to clean water, especially in conflict-affected regions.
