WHO Reports Sharp Increase In Cholera Deaths Globally In 2023

The World Health Organisation (WHO) reported a 13% rise in cholera cases and a 71% increase in deaths in 2023 compared to the previous year. Over 4,000 people succumbed to this preventable and treatable disease last year. Cholera cases were reported in 45 countries, up from 44 in 2022 and 35 in 2021.

Conflict, climate change, lack of safe water and sanitation, poverty, underdevelopment, and population displacement due to conflicts and natural disasters contributed to the rise in cholera outbreaks last year. These factors created conditions that facilitated the spread of the disease.

In 2023, there was a significant shift in the geographical distribution of cholera cases. The Middle East and Asia saw a 32% decrease in reported cases. However, Africa experienced a dramatic increase of 125%. Many African countries reported high community death rates, highlighting gaps in access to treatment.

Children under five years old accounted for 38% of the reported cholera cases. This age group remains particularly vulnerable to the disease's severe effects. Afghanistan, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Malawi, and Somalia continued to experience large outbreaks with over 10,000 suspected or confirmed cases each.

Ethiopia, Haiti, Mozambique, and Zimbabwe also reported significant outbreaks in 2023. These countries added to the global tally of cholera cases, indicating widespread challenges in controlling the disease.

Current Situation and Future Outlook

Preliminary data for 2024 show that the global cholera crisis persists. As of August 22nd, WHO has recorded active outbreaks in 22 countries. Although case numbers are lower than during the same period last year, there have been 342,800 cases and 2,400 deaths reported across all continents so far this year.

The ongoing cholera crisis underscores the need for improved access to clean water and sanitation facilities worldwide. Addressing these fundamental issues is crucial for preventing future outbreaks and reducing mortality rates associated with this disease.

With inputs from WAM