Cholera cases in war-torn Sudan have increased by nearly 40% in just two weeks, raising serious concerns among U.N. health officials.
The surge, which began in July, has been exacerbated by the lack of proper response and the ongoing conflict.
The Sudanese health ministry reported 21,288 cases and 626 deaths across 11 states during the recent period.
This marked a significant increase from 15,577 cases and 506 deaths reported on September 26.
The eastern states, including Kassala, have been particularly hard hit.
Richard Brennan, the regional emergency director at WHO, expressed deep concern over the rapid spread of cholera.
He emphasized the need to redouble efforts to contain the outbreak, working closely with the health ministry and partners like UNICEF.
The ongoing conflict between Burhan-controlled SAF and the Rapid Support Forces has devastated the country’s health system.
With 75% of health facilities in Khartoum non-functional, the situation is dire, according to Hanan Balkhy, WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean.
UNICEF has been working to address the crisis by delivering vaccines and supporting vaccination campaigns.
However, the war and displacement of millions have hindered efforts to provide adequate healthcare and sanitation services.
The cholera outbreak poses a significant threat to the population of Sudan, particularly in areas affected by conflict and displacement.
Urgent action is needed to prevent further spread of the disease and provide essential healthcare services to those in need.