The World Health Organization (WHO) released a concerning report on Wednesday, highlighting a significant surge in global cholera cases and deaths in 2023. The number of reported cases increased by 13% compared to the previous year, while fatalities rose by a staggering 71%.
The agency attributed the increase to a combination of factors, including conflicts, climate change, inadequate sanitation, and poverty. Notably, 45 countries reported cholera cases last year, and 38% of those affected were children under five.
While the overall number of cases decreased in regions like the Middle East and Asia, Africa experienced a dramatic 125% increase. Many African countries reported a high proportion of community deaths, indicating limited access to treatment.
The WHO expressed deep concern over the persistent global cholera crisis, which has continued into 2024. As of August 22, 22 countries were reporting active outbreaks, with 342,800 cases and 2,400 deaths recorded.
The WHO’s Director-General, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, highlighted a severe shortage of cholera vaccines as a major obstacle in combating the crisis. The demand for vaccines has skyrocketed in recent years, exceeding production capacity.
To address the limited supply, the WHO has implemented a single-dose vaccination approach, but this strategy has its limitations. The agency urged other manufacturers to enter the market and increase production to meet the growing demand for cholera vaccines.