Global Cholera Outbreak: Cholera cases are increasing in many countries of the world. Cholera outbreaks are being experienced in 22 countries around the world. There is a danger of spreading the infection to about 1 billion people. During the first 29 days of January, 26,000 cholera cases were reported across Africa. It is being told that due to lack of vaccine, climate change and increasing conflict, cases of cholera have increased.
WHO cholera team leader Philip Barboza told the media at a press conference on Friday that three countries had reported cholera outbreaks that week alone.
Outbreak of cholera in many countries of the world
After years of declining cholera cases, a resurgence appears to be on the rise. This is expected to continue after the recent cyclones and the Syria earthquake. During the first 29 days of January, 26,000 cholera cases were reported across Africa. WHO has expressed concern about the increase in the case. WHO cholera team leader Philip Barboza said that for the first time WHO is asking for help from donors to fight this epidemic.
Situation worsens after 2022
Philip Barboza told that 22 countries around the world are fighting the outbreak of acute diarrheal infection caused by contaminated food or water. He said that after the falling number of cases, there was an increase in cholera cases in 2022 and this trend is expected to continue this year as well. He said that cases have been reported in five out of six areas. The latest WHO global overview published in early February showed that the situation is set to worsen from 2022 onwards.
What is the reason for the outbreak of cholera?
Dr. Barboza said that lack of access to clean water and sanitation continue to be contributing factors to cholera infection, in addition to the consequences of poverty, disasters, conflict and climate change. He drew attention to the limited availability of vaccines, medicines and testing kits. Barboza said that year 2023 There are only 37 million doses available. However, it is expected to get more doses by next year.
death due to cholera
Dr Barboza said that as a result of the current global outbreak, WHO is for the first time appealing to donors to support a $25 million fund to help address cholera outbreaks and save lives. The WHO said an estimated 26,000 cases and 660 deaths have been reported by 29 January 2023 in 10 African countries facing outbreaks since the beginning of the year. In 2022, approximately 80,000 cases and 1,863 deaths were reported from the 15 affected countries.
In which countries cholera outbreak?
Neighboring Malawi is facing its deadliest cholera outbreak in two decades, according to the WHO. Apart from this, cases are coming up in other countries including Ethiopia, Kenya and Somalia. The UN health agency said the challenges include climate change, which has caused drought or flooding in parts of Africa. Population displacement has increased and access to clean water has decreased.
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