Cholera Returns Strongly.. Record Deaths and Global Warning of Wider Spread

The World Health Organization issued a strong warning on Friday regarding the global outbreak of cholera, confirming that infections have exceeded 400,000 cases since the beginning of the year in 31 countries, amid a concerning rise in the number of deaths.

The organization stated that the health situation "continues to deteriorate sharply," driven by factors such as armed conflicts, poverty, mass displacement, natural disasters, and climate change, especially in rural areas affected by floods where infrastructure weakens and treatment options are delayed.

As of August 17, the WHO reported more than 409,000 infections and 4,738 deaths, noting that infections have decreased by 20% compared to last year, but deaths have surged by 46%.

The organization explained that the mortality rate exceeds 1% in six countries, revealing serious gaps in healthcare, while countries like Congo and Chad report the highest death rates at 7.7% and 6.8%, respectively.

Sudan has become the most affected country in the world, recording more than 2,400 deaths in 17 states over the past year, according to UNICEF data.

Although cholera is a disease that can be easily treated through fluid replacement, it can lead to death within hours if the patient does not receive immediate treatment.