In response to a severe cholera outbreak across several states including Kassala, Gedaref, and River Nile, Sudanese authorities, under the guidance of Health Minister Haitham Mohamed Ibrahim, have initiated a national campaign to combat the spread of the disease. The outbreak, which has been persistent since the onset of armed clashes in April 2023, has now affected areas such as Al Jazirah and Khartoum as well.
The national campaign, launched after a crucial emergency meeting, aims to consolidate efforts across affected regions and encourage community involvement in improving environmental sanitation. The multifaceted strategy includes vaccinations, vector control, water purification, food safety, and extensive public awareness programs about cholera’s dangers and preventive hygiene practices.
Since the outbreak’s official acknowledgment last month, over 12,896 cholera cases and 388 deaths have been reported across nine states. The Health Ministry attributes the rapid spread to compromised sanitation and healthcare systems due to the ongoing conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces, which has also led to other epidemics like malaria, measles, and dengue fever. This conflict has drastically disrupted the lives of millions, displacing them and putting additional strain on Sudan’s healthcare infrastructure.
Cholera, a highly contagious disease caused by ingesting contaminated food or water, can lead to acute watery diarrhea and can be life-threatening within hours if untreated.
