Sudan Cholera Outbreak Claims 70 Lives in a Single Week

A cholera outbreak in southern Sudan has led to 70 deaths and over 2,200 infections recently, as reported by Save the Children. The situation is exacerbated by ongoing civil conflict, which has crippled the healthcare system. Cholera cases are reported at an alarming rate, prompting warnings from UNICEF about the dire need for clean water and sanitation. Efforts are urgently needed to address this public health crisis.

In southern Sudan, a cholera outbreak has resulted in the deaths of at least 70 individuals and over 2,200 infections within the past week, according to Save the Children, referencing health ministry data. The outbreak primarily affects Kosti, the capital of White Nile state, and follows a drone strike that disrupted access to clean water by targeting the Um Dabakar power station, located 275 kilometers south of Khartoum.

The ongoing civil war in Sudan, now approaching its second year, has severely impacted the healthcare system. This conflict has resulted in extensive fatalities and the displacement of more than 12 million individuals. Save the Children reported that vulnerable populations, especially children, are increasingly at risk due to the cholera crisis.

From February 20 to 26, the health ministry linked to the army reported a staggering average of about 400 new cholera cases daily in Kosti. Since the outbreak began in August last year, Sudan has documented over 55,000 cholera cases and more than 1,400 fatalities. This situation underscores the dire need for public health interventions.

From January 1 to February 25, approximately 2,700 cholera cases have been recorded in White Nile state, with over 500 of those cases involving children, according to UNICEF. Sheldon Yett, the UNICEF representative to Sudan, emphasized the critical lack of humanitarian resources, which puts all children in jeopardy during this ongoing war.

Yett articulated, “If children are denied access to clean water, hygiene and sanitation services, as well as information on preventing the spread of cholera, the outbreak will unfortunately continue.” The war in Sudan, which began in April 2023, has devastated civilian infrastructure and healthcare facilities. Reports indicate that 80 percent of hospitals are inoperative, and those remaining are facing significant shortages of medical supplies.

The cholera outbreak in Sudan has rapidly escalated, necessitating immediate attention and action. With significant fatalities reported and health facilities overwhelmed, the humanitarian crisis continues to deepen amid the ongoing war. Access to clean water and medical services remains crucial for containing the outbreak. Urgent interventions are required to protect vulnerable populations, particularly children, at risk of this deadly disease.

Original Source: www.newarab.com