Recent reports from Sudan have revealed a concerning spike in cholera cases, with a nearly 40% increase in less than two weeks. The outbreak, which was first reported in July, has now affected 21,288 individuals across 11 of the country's 18 states, resulting in 626 deaths. This marks a significant escalation from the 15,577 cases and 506 deaths reported just weeks ago.
The majority of cases have been concentrated in the eastern states, particularly in Kassala. In response to the growing crisis, UNICEF has joined forces with the Sudanese Ministry of Health and the World Health Organization (WHO) to conduct a second round of oral cholera vaccination campaigns in the region.
Health officials have expressed alarm at the rapid spread of the disease, attributing it to recent heavy rainfall and flooding that have devastated many areas, especially in eastern Sudan. Cholera, a highly contagious illness transmitted through contaminated food and water, can lead to severe dehydration and prove fatal if left untreated.
Efforts to combat the outbreak include the delivery of 404,000 vaccine doses to Sudan, with additional campaigns planned for other affected states. A recent shipment of 1.4 million doses of oral cholera vaccines underscores the urgency of the situation, as health workers strive to reach 1.81 million people in the worst-hit regions.
While the vaccination campaign is still in its early stages, health workers are intensifying surveillance activities to detect new cases. Plans are also underway to administer an additional 2.2 million doses in the coming weeks. However, experts emphasize that vaccines alone are not a cure-all for cholera, underscoring the importance of comprehensive disease control measures, including treatment, community engagement, and access to clean water and sanitation.
Meanwhile, the health system in Sudan is facing significant challenges, with 75% of health facilities in Khartoum reported as non-functional. The situation is even more dire in western Darfur states, where the impact of the ongoing conflict between the Sudanese military and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has been particularly severe.
Since the conflict erupted in April 2023, the U.N. estimates that over 20,000 people have lost their lives, with thousands more injured. The war has displaced over 10 million individuals, including 2.4 million who have sought refuge in neighboring countries and beyond.
