Cholera Outbreak Claims Nearly 100 Lives in Sudan’s White Nile State
Nearly 100 deaths from cholera occurred in two weeks in Sudan’s White Nile State, with 2,700 confirmed cases. The outbreak results from ongoing conflict and infrastructure damage. Efforts to provide clean water and vaccinations are underway in response to the health crisis exacerbated by the war.
In Sudan’s White Nile State, nearly 100 individuals succumbed to cholera within two weeks of an outbreak, as reported by Doctors Without Borders (MSF). Since February 20, approximately 2,700 cases of cholera have been recorded, with fatalities reaching 92, including 18 children under the age of nine. This alarming outbreak traces back to the ongoing conflicts that started nearly two years ago between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
Intensifying violence, particularly the RSF’s attacks last month, has resulted in significant civilian casualties and exacerbated the cholera situation. During these assaults, the RSF targeted crucial infrastructure, notably the Rabak power plant, causing widespread power outages and disrupting access to safe water; many residents turned to unreliable sources rather than functioning water supply systems.
MSF’s emergency coordinator for Sudan, Marta Cazarola, highlighted the long-term health ramifications of attacks on vital infrastructure, stating, “Attacks on critical infrastructure have long-term detrimental effects on the health of vulnerable communities.” Hospital facilities were soon overwhelmed as cholera cases surged, staggering resources at Kosti Teaching Hospital. In response, MSF allocated 25 tons of logistical supplies to accommodate the increasing patient load amid severe dehydration cases.
The White Nile State Health Ministry has initiated efforts to combat the outbreak, including enhancing access to clean water and prohibiting the use of donkey carts for water transport. Additionally, a vaccination campaign was launched as part of the response to the outbreak. Nationally, Sudan’s health ministry reported 57,135 cholera cases and 1,506 deaths across various states, signaling a broader public health crisis exacerbated by ongoing conflict, which has left over 20,000 fatalities and displaced millions of people across the nation.
The cholera outbreak in Sudan’s White Nile State underscores the dire consequences of ongoing conflict and infrastructure damage on public health. With a rapid increase in cases and significant fatalities, public health efforts are urgently needed to provide clean water and vaccinations. The situation illustrates the interconnectedness of war, disease, and health emergencies, demanding immediate attention from the international community.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
