16 people already dead: cholera outbreak in Sudan

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By September 25, 16 people had probably died from the highly contagious diarrheal disease. There has also been an increase in acute diarrheal diseases in the capital Khartoum and another region. Whether it is cholera is still being investigated.

The WHO weeks ago distributed materials for diagnosing and treating cholera. The organization supports the Ministry of Health in its efforts to provide more people with clean drinking water and hygienic toilets, she said.

Cholera is caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae, which produces a toxin in the intestines. Drinking water contaminated with feces or vomit from sick people, as well as contaminated food, contribute to the spread. Many infections have no symptoms. But in severe cases, the severe fluid and salt loss can lead to circulatory collapse, muscle cramps, and even shock and death within hours.

About 5.4 million people have now been displaced from their homes as a result of the fighting that began in April, according to estimates by the UN emergency agency. 4.3 million of them are refugees in the country. In such situations, the spread of disease is a major risk. According to the WHO, health workers are at their limits and clinics are being attacked again and again. In conflict areas, 70 percent of hospitals can no longer treat people.

Cholera is increasing worldwide. Last year, governments reported more than twice as many cases to the WHO as the year before, more than 470,000.

(SDA)

Source: Blick