Sudan contains cholera in some states, battles major dengue, malaria outbreaks

October 7, 2025 (PORT SUDAN) – Sudan has successfully contained cholera in some states but continues to battle major outbreaks of dengue fever and malaria that are challenging its health system, a federal health report said on Tuesday.

The report from the Federal Emergency Operations Centre detailed 951 cholera cases and 34 deaths across fifteen states.

However, dengue fever remains a primary concern, with Khartoum state the epicentre of an outbreak that accounts for 80% of the 3,676 cases reported nationwide. The report also cited a viral hepatitis outbreak in Gezira state with 59 cases and five deaths. It noted that malaria has now surpassed the “epidemic threshold” in several localities.

In response, authorities have launched large-scale vector control campaigns in Khartoum, including inspections and spraying in more than 1,000 neighbourhoods. The response also includes targeted vaccination campaigns, with a cholera drive achieving 100% coverage in three Khartoum localities and a measles and rubella campaign reaching 97% in parts of Gezira.

Shortages are hindering efforts to maintain the national supply of essential medicines, the report stated. The autumn rainy season has worsened the crisis, with recent flooding in Khartoum affecting dozens of families.

Looking ahead, health officials and international partners are focusing on strategic recovery. At a forum in Kassala, discussions focused on digital transformation in healthcare, while the U.N. Development Programme (UNDP) committed to supporting a “build back better” strategy for Sudan’s health sector.

The government report concluded by stating its commitment to strengthening its health response, particularly in states where it said the Rapid Support Forces militia deliberately sabotaged health infrastructure.