Cholera Outbreak in Sudan: 58 Lives Lost as Cases Surge Rapidly

The Sudanese Health Ministry reports a cholera outbreak in southern Sudan, marking 1,351 cases and 58 deaths, predominantly in Kosti. Contaminated drinking water remains the primary cause due to infrastructure damage. Government efforts have focused on reactivating water supplies and a vaccination campaign amid ongoing civil unrest, with over 53,000 cholera cases reported since August.

The Sudanese Health Ministry has reported a cholera outbreak in southern Sudan, with a total of 1,351 cases and 58 fatalities. The outbreak is particularly severe in Kosti city, located in White Nile State, which has witnessed a rapid escalation of cases within a mere three days. This alarming situation has been attributed to contaminated drinking water, following the shutdown of the main water station as a result of attacks by the Rapid Support Forces militia on the Um Dabakir electricity station.

To combat this outbreak, the government has responded urgently, implementing key measures that have notably diminished the increase in infection rates. Critical interventions have included reactivating the main water station in Kosti, launching a vaccination campaign, ensuring the availability of intravenous fluids, and expanding bed capacity at the isolation center to accommodate patients.

In addition to the Health Ministry’s figures, the Sudan Doctors Network reported that there were 1,197 cases of cholera, resulting in 83 deaths, documented in White Nile State within a brief time frame. Overall, statistics from the Health Ministry indicate that since the onset of the outbreak in August, there have been 53,735 cases in the country and 1,430 deaths. This worsening public health crisis coincides with ongoing civil conflict between the Sudanese army and the RSF, which has led to significant loss of life and mass displacement.

The cholera outbreak in southern Sudan, exacerbated by contaminated water supply due to infrastructural damage, has caused significant casualties and continues to pose a serious public health threat. The government’s swift interventions have been pivotal in mitigating further spread, but the ongoing civil unrest complicates the recovery efforts. Addressing public health challenges amidst conflict remains a critical priority for Sudanese authorities.

Original Source: news.az