Sudan cholera cases top 15,500 amid war and floods

September 28, 2024  (KASSALA) – Sudan reported 271 new cholera cases on Saturday, bringing the total to 15,577 with 506 deaths since the outbreak began in August, the health ministry said.

The epidemic has spread to 58 localities across ten states, fueled by heavy rains and floods that have left stagnant water, ideal breeding grounds for the disease.

The ministry said 82 of the new cases were in Kassala state, 88 in Gedaref, 34 in Gezira, 50 in White Nile, and 17 in Red Sea state. One new death was reported in White Nile.

The ministry said in a statement, “We have implemented measures to combat the outbreak, including home visits, community dialogues, and awareness campaigns. “

Authorities believe the actual number of cases is far higher due to disruptions to healthcare services caused by the ongoing conflict between the army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

The fighting has severely hampered efforts to contain the outbreak, limiting access to clean water and medical facilities.

The ministry said it was working to mitigate the impact of the floods, which have affected 907 areas in 54 localities across 11 states. Northern state is the worst hit.