Surge in Cholera Death Rates in Sudan and Nigeria Amid Flooding and Conflict

Cholera death rates in Sudan and Nigeria have surged, now reaching levels nearly three times the global average, primarily due to flooding and conflicts hindering access to treatment. Save the Children highlights alarming case fatality rates and calls for urgent intervention to protect vulnerable populations, especially children affected by malnutrition and disease.

The death toll from cholera outbreaks in Sudan and Nigeria has significantly increased, now reaching levels up to three times the global average, endangering thousands of children as conflicts and flooding obstruct access to vital treatment, as reported by Save the Children. In Sudan, the latest reports indicate a Case Fatality Rate (CFR) of 3.1 deaths per 100 confirmed cholera cases, greatly exceeding the globally recognized threshold of 1%. Similarly, Nigeria’s outbreak presents a fatality rate of 2.9%. Recent catastrophic flooding, driven by climate change, has impacted approximately 4.4 million individuals across West and Central Africa, leading to 17,600 reported cases of cholera and 546 deaths in Sudan between mid-July and late September. Due to persistent violence and water contamination, about 80% of Sudanese hospitals are non-operational, exacerbating the health crisis. Reports indicate concerning increases in cholera cases, particularly among children below five years of age. In Nigeria, the cholera outbreak is associated with widespread displacement affecting 29 states, and children constitute 37% of confirmed cases. Mohamed Abdiladif, Interim Country Director for Save the Children in Sudan, emphasizes, “A lack of vital medicines, combined with hunger and malnutrition is putting millions of children at risk of diseases and possible death. ” The deteriorating healthcare system is not only impeding emergency medical care but also interrupting essential services such as vaccinations and maternal care. Duncan Harvey, Country Director of Save the Children in Nigeria, states, “Cholera outbreaks are preventable with proper infrastructure and hygiene practices.” The flooding in Nigeria exacerbates the challenges faced by vulnerable communities, particularly children suffering from malnutrition and disease. To address the crisis, Save the Children is involved in multiple interventions, including monitoring and disinfecting water sources and providing essential supplies to affected regions in both Sudan and Nigeria. They are appealing to governments and donor agencies to expedite measures to protect children and save lives.

Cholera outbreaks have recently escalated in regions plagued by floods and conflicts, particularly in Sudan and Nigeria. The combination of deteriorating water quality, inadequate healthcare, and a lack of essential medical supplies has led to alarmingly high mortality rates from cholera, which is a preventable disease largely treatable with appropriate medical care. The role of climate change is pivotal, as unprecedented floods have significantly impacted the living conditions and health services in these regions, particularly affecting children who are at greater risk of serious illness due to cholera and other related diseases.

In summary, the cholera outbreaks in Sudan and Nigeria have reached critical levels, necessitating urgent intervention and support to mitigate the health crisis. Access to clean water, essential medical care, and proper hygiene measures are imperative to prevent further loss of life. Collaborative efforts from governments, humanitarian organizations, and the international community are essential to safeguard the health and wellbeing of vulnerable populations, especially children, who are disproportionately affected by these crises.

Original Source: reliefweb.int