WHO warns of impact of new cholera wave in Sudan

Cholera patients receive treatment at a field hospital in Mingkaman, South Sudan. (Source: AFP)

In a press conference in Geneva, Dr Shible Sahbani, WHO Representative and Head of Mission in Sudan, said that within a month since the first suspected cases were reported, 658 infections and 28 deaths have been recorded across five states, with a 4.3% increase in the mortality rate.

Among the five states, Kassala recorded the highest number of infections, with 473 cases, followed by Al Qadarif with 110 cases and Gezira with 51 cases, he stressed.

Meanwhile, Khartoum and the Nile states reported fewer cases.

WHO is currently working closely with federal and state health authorities to coordinate the response to the cholera outbreak, including the pre-positioning of cholera test kits and other essential medical supplies in high-risk areas to effectively respond to risks associated with the rainy season.

Dr. Sahbani specifically emphasized the need for the organization and its partners to have safe and unhindered access to all affected areas to effectively respond to the cholera outbreak, along with sustainable financial support to address the growing health needs caused by disease, malnutrition, natural disasters such as heavy rains and floods, and the immediate threat of war.