Sudan: Attacks on healthcare facilities increase risks of disease outbreaks
February 24, 2025 (PORT SUDAN) – The ongoing hostilities, insecurity and attacks on healthcare facilities in Sudan continue to increase the risks of disease outbreaks across the country, the UN humanitarian agency (OCHA) said.
Of particular concern, OCHA says, are rising cases of cholera in White Nile State.
According to health authorities, over 1,600 cases, including 63 deaths, have been recorded in recent days, with the latest being 289 cases, including five deaths.
A UN statement noted that a likely source of the infection is the White Nile River, where families have been collecting water during a major power outage following drone attacks on power facilities in the area, according to partners.
On 21 February, according to the UN, the Sudanese Ministry of Health, the World Health Organization (WHO) and UN Children Fund (UNICEF) launched a six-day cholera vaccination campaign in the localities of Kosti and Rabak in White Nile.
They aim is reportedly to reach over 1 million people with oral cholera vaccines. Since the start of the cholera outbreak in July of last year, more than 55,000 cases of cholera, including nearly 1,500 deaths, have been reported from 12 out of Sudan’s 18 states, according to authorities and the health partners.
The UN reiterated the appeal for all sides to adhere to international humanitarian law and ensure that civilians and critical civilian infrastructure are protected.
(ST)