UPDATE: Cholera cases in Sudan are escalating at an alarming pace, with the World Health Organization (WHO) reporting a surge in cases across the war-torn country. As of now, over 12,739 cases and 358 deaths have been documented in Darfur alone, following the outbreak that began in July 2022.
The WHO’s deputy representative in Sudan, Hala Khudari, warned that cholera is spreading rapidly, affecting all 18 states of Sudan. The situation is dire, with the health agency launching a vaccination campaign aimed at 406,000 people in North Darfur. Khudari emphasized that the cholera outbreak is coupled with a “disturbing fatality rate” as the conflict continues to exacerbate public health crises.
Since the civil war erupted in April 2023, the conflict has claimed at least 40,000 lives and displaced approximately 12 million people. This ongoing violence has severely limited access to essential services such as clean water and healthcare, further fueling the choleral outbreak.
As reported on Sunday, cholera cases in Darfur have increased amid significant access challenges that hinder the necessary response efforts. The WHO revealed that more than 113,600 cases have been recorded nationwide, with a fatality ratio of 2.7 percent, well above the 1 percent target threshold.
In a video statement from Port Sudan, Khudari noted the urgent need for increased resources and access to combat the cholera outbreak effectively. “Reported cases in Darfur continue to increase amid severe access constraints that are impeding the required scale of response,” she stated.
The humanitarian crisis in Sudan is deepening, with many citizens facing the brink of famine. The combination of ongoing violence and mass displacement has led to a critical shortage of food, clean water, and medical care.
As the world watches this unfolding tragedy, the international community must respond swiftly to prevent further loss of life. The situation demands immediate attention as the people of Sudan grapple with the devastating impacts of both cholera and civil war.
Stay tuned for more updates as they develop.
