Cholera Outbreak Claims Nearly 100 Lives in Sudan Amid Ongoing Conflict

Cholera has killed nearly 100 people in Sudan’s White Nile State since February 20. Doctors Without Borders reported 2,700 cases of the disease, including significant fatalities among children. The outbreak follows intense fighting between the Sudanese army and Rapid Support Forces, disrupting essential services like water supply. Efforts are being made to control the spread of cholera amid the ongoing humanitarian crisis.

An international aid organization reported that nearly 100 individuals have succumbed to cholera within the past two weeks in White Nile State, Sudan. Doctors Without Borders (MSF) noted that, since February 20, about 2,700 cases have been documented, with 92 fatalities, including 18 children.

The cholera outbreak coincides with ongoing conflict that erupted nearly two years ago between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), resulting in widespread violence, particularly in Khartoum and the surrounding regions. Recent RSF assaults in White Nile State have exacerbated the situation, leading to significant civilian casualties.

On February 16, a projectile launched by the RSF struck the Rabak power plant, resulting in widespread power outages and the initiation of the cholera outbreak. Consequently, local residents are forced to depend on water from donkey carts, as water pumps are no longer functional. “Attacks on critical infrastructure have long-term detrimental effects on the health of vulnerable communities,” stated Marta Cazorla, MSF emergency coordinator for Sudan.

Between February 20 and 24, the cholera outbreak peaked, overwhelming the Kosti Teaching Hospital due to an influx of severely dehydrated patients. In response, MSF provided significant logistical support, including 25 tons of supplies such as beds and tents to accommodate the surge in patients.

The White Nile State Health Ministry has also responded by improving access to clean water and prohibiting donkey carts for water transport. Additionally, a vaccination campaign was launched when the outbreak hit. As of Tuesday, Sudan’s health ministry reported a total of 57,135 cholera cases and 1,506 deaths throughout 12 of the country’s 18 states, marking a public health crisis that has been officially acknowledged since August 12.

The ongoing conflict in Sudan has resulted in over 20,000 deaths and displaced more than 14 million individuals. This war has driven regions into famine and has triggered outbreaks of various diseases, including cholera.

The cholera outbreak in Sudan, particularly in White Nile State, underscores the dire impact of ongoing conflict on public health. With nearly 100 fatalities reported and thousands affected, the situation necessitates urgent humanitarian intervention. Despite efforts to provide clean water and medical assistance, the ongoing violence significantly complicates relief efforts, highlighting the critical need for a resolution to the conflict and support for vulnerable populations.

Original Source: www.voanews.com