Cholera outbreak in Sudan worsens
Sudan’s cholera outbreak has escalated, with over 10,000 cases and 335 fatalities reported across nine states, according to the country’s health ministry. The epidemic, which began on August 12 amid heavy rains and floods, is affecting eastern regions such as Kassala, Gedaref, and the Red Sea states, as well as areas in the north like River Nile and Northern states. Central and southern regions, including Al Jazirah, Sennar, White Nile, and Khartoum, are also impacted.
Kassala state is the hardest hit, with response efforts covering only 50% of the Kassala and Wad Al Helew localities. In just five states, 399 new cases and three additional deaths were recorded, bringing the total to 10,567 cases and 335 deaths.
Activists report a further spread of the disease in Sennar state, with 48 confirmed cases, while River Nile state recorded 161 new cases, raising its total to 2,635 with 64 deaths. Many criticize the lack of effective intervention by the health ministry and NGOs.
The outbreak is worsening due to Sudan’s deteriorating health situation, compounded by the rainy season. Around 80% of health facilities in conflict zones have ceased operations, and there is a severe shortage of medical supplies.
Additionally, the country’s emergency services report that rains and floods have claimed 225 lives, injured 889, and affected nearly 350,000 people, with tens of thousands of homes destroyed or damaged.