WHO reports escalating global cholera threat, highlights surges in Africa

According to preliminary data for 2023 and ongoing analysis into 2024, 30 countries across five WHO regions have reported cholera outbreaks, with nine countries recording more than 10,000 cases each. The situation remains classified as a grade 3 emergency, signifying a very high global risk.

In the first month of 2024 alone, countries reported a total of 40,900 cholera cases and 775 deaths.

Africa: Hardest-Hit Region

Africa has been particularly affected, with 17 countries reporting outbreaks in 2023. Notably, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Malawi, and Mozambique reported the highest numbers of cases. Malawi, in particular, accounted for 26% of the world's cholera deaths last year. Ethiopia, Zimbabwe, and Kenya also faced significant outbreaks.

Other Regions Affected

In the Eastern Mediterranean region, eight countries reported outbreaks, with Afghanistan and Syria reporting high numbers, partly due to a broader case definition that includes acute watery diarrhea-related illnesses. Haiti experienced a severe outbreak in the Americas, while several countries in South East Asia reported smaller events, including India, Bangladesh, and the Philippines.

Continued Challenges in 2024

In the current year, nearly 41,000 cases and 775 deaths have been reported from 17 countries across four regions, with Africa remaining the worst-affected. Zambia reported over 12,000 new cases, with 467 fatalities, while Zimbabwe reported more than 6,700 cases and 156 deaths.

Call for Persistent Public Health Efforts

The WHO emphasized the critical need for persistent public health initiatives to combat cholera, including stronger water and sanitation systems, increased awareness of cholera transmission in high-risk groups, enhanced surveillance, and support for case management.

Obstacles in Vaccine Distribution

The ongoing shortage of oral cholera vaccine remains a significant obstacle. Despite 14 countries requesting 76 million doses in 2023, only 38 million doses were available. The global stockpile awaits replenishment, with vaccine shortages contributing to the emergency classification.

The WHO stressed the urgency of addressing vaccine shortages, geographic cholera expansion, and the frequency of outbreaks to effectively combat the ongoing cholera crisis. (ILKHA)