Cholera Outbreaks Intensify in Sudan and Nigeria Amidst Flooding and Conflict

Death rates from cholera outbreaks in Sudan and Nigeria have surged to nearly three times the global average, endangered by ongoing conflict and severe flooding. Save the Children reports concerning Case Fatality Rates, with Sudan at 3.1% and Nigeria at 2.9%. The outbreaks disproportionately affect children under five, as climate change exacerbates existing vulnerabilities. Urgent interventions are being implemented, yet significant challenges remain in addressing malnutrition and healthcare access.

ABUJA/KHARTOUM, 4 October 2024 – Death rates resulting from significant cholera outbreaks in Sudan and Nigeria have surged, reaching up to three times the global average. This alarming trend endangers thousands of children as cases escalate amidst conflict and flooding that hinder access to essential medical treatment, according to Save the Children. In Sudan, the latest data reveals a Case Fatality Rate (CFR) of 3.1 deaths per 100 confirmed cases, a stark increase from the 1% standard considered acceptable. Additionally, Nigeria’s outbreak displays a fatality rate of 2.9%, also significantly above the minimum standard. Recent flooding across 16 countries in West, Central, and East Africa, including Sudan and Nigeria, has exacerbated the situation, affecting over 4.4 million individuals in West and Central Africa and more than 2 million in Eastern Africa due to climate change. This flooding, coupled with contaminated water sources and inadequate sewage facilities, has led to a dramatic increase in cholera cases. The disease is treatable with effective medical care, which is sadly lacking in several afflicted areas. From 22 July to 29 September alone, Sudan reported over 17,600 cholera cases and 546 associated deaths across 60 localities in 10 states. The combination of more than a year of violence, flood-related impacts, and water contamination has sharply escalated the outbreak’s severity, resulting in 80% of hospitals in Sudan being non-operational, and those active lacking essential medical supplies. Moreover, Save the Children has reported a significant rise in cholera cases among children under the age of five, who constitute 15% of confirmed cases and deaths nationwide. In Nigeria, the cholera outbreak has closely followed severe displacement due to widespread floods, affecting 29 states, with children representing 37% of confirmed cases among over 450 cases reported by 1 October. Mohamed Abdiladif, Interim Country Director for Save the Children in Sudan, stated, “A lack of vital medicines, combined with hunger and malnutrition is putting millions of children at risk of diseases and possible death.” He added that deteriorating healthcare systems are disrupting routine medical services, leading to increased rates of preventable diseases in affected communities. Duncan Harvey, Country Director of Save the Children in Nigeria, emphasized, “Cholera outbreaks are preventable with proper infrastructure and hygiene practices,” urging for immediate governmental and organizational responses to protect vulnerable populations, particularly children. In response to the crises, Save the Children is actively engaged in various interventions, including testing water quality, providing medical aid, and distributing essential supplies to affected populations in both Sudan and Nigeria. As the situation continues to evolve, the organization is committed to delivering critical assistance to combat cholera outbreaks while addressing the underlying issues of malnutrition and healthcare deficiencies.

Cholera, an infectious disease caused by consuming contaminated food or water, has historically posed significant public health challenges, particularly in regions with inadequate sanitation and healthcare systems. The latest outbreaks in Sudan and Nigeria are a direct consequence of ongoing conflicts, environmental changes leading to severe flooding, and the resulting disruptions in healthcare. These conditions have created a perfect storm for the resurgence of cholera, with vulnerable populations, especially children, bearing the brunt of the impact. Understanding the multi-faceted causes of these outbreaks sheds light on the urgent need for enhanced infrastructure, public health measures, and humanitarian assistance in these regions.

In conclusion, the cholera outbreaks in Sudan and Nigeria are critical public health emergencies that have escalated to alarming fatality rates due to heightened risk factors such as flooding, conflict, and nutritional inadequacies. The humanitarian situation reflects an urgent need for immediate action to provide medical treatment and improve hygiene and water quality. The commitment of organizations such as Save the Children highlights the significant effort required to mitigate these crises and protect the lives of vulnerable children.

Original Source: reliefweb.int