Surging Cholera and Dengue Fever Amid Ongoing Crisis in Sudan

Sudan is facing a humanitarian crisis marked by increasing cholera and dengue fever cases amid a collapsing healthcare system due to war. The OCHA reported over 28,000 cholera cases and 836 deaths, compounded by rising hunger levels. Nearly 80% of health facilities are non-operational, and violence continues to obstruct aid efforts, leaving millions in dire need of assistance.

Sudan is currently reeling from the consequences of a devastating war that has led to the collapse of its healthcare system, marked by alarming surges in both cholera and dengue fever. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has reported over 28,000 cholera cases with 836 fatalities across 11 states from July 22 to October 28. The lack of accurate reporting suggests that the actual infection rates could be much higher, as authorities also indicated rising instances of dengue fever amidst the humanitarian crisis.

Heavy rainfall has exacerbated the cholera outbreak, as flooding has contaminated critical water sources. Kassala is particularly hard-hit, recording 6,868 cases and 198 deaths. Dengue fever cases have surged, particularly in Kassala and Khartoum, with Kassala alone reporting 4,544 dengue cases and 12 associated deaths. In response, the Ministry of Health declared a new wave of cholera and initiated a vaccination campaign targeting approximately 1.4 million individuals in the severely affected states.

The warning persists regarding life-threatening hunger in Sudan due to blockades and ongoing conflicts, especially in El Fasher, North Darfur. This prolonged violence has disrupted the supply chain, delaying food and humanitarian assistance. Reports indicate that malnutrition rates remain critically high in the Zamzam camp, confirming famine conditions.

Compounding these dire circumstances, nearly 80 percent of health facilities in conflict zones are either non-functional or entirely closed, severely limiting access to essential health services. The World Health Organization (WHO) has documented over 116 incidents of violence against healthcare providers since the onset of hostilities.

In summary, the ongoing humanitarian crisis has uprooted millions, overwhelming the healthcare system and exacerbating health risks. Aid organizations are tirelessly working to assist millions of affected individuals, yet the escalating violence continues to hinder humanitarian access and efforts.

The article addresses the severe humanitarian crisis afflicting Sudan, primarily caused by ongoing conflict that has significantly deteriorated public health and safety. The surge in cholera and dengue fever cases is attributed to disruptions in the healthcare system and environmental factors, including significant rainfall and flooding. Moreover, an alarming rise in hunger levels due to conflicts and economic blockades threatens the population’s survival, further complicating the humanitarian situation in the country.

In conclusion, Sudan is grappling with a multifaceted humanitarian disaster characterized by escalating cholera and dengue fever cases amid a crippling healthcare system. The war has not only disrupted health services but has also led to severe food insecurity, directly impacting millions of vulnerable individuals. Efforts by humanitarian organizations to provide relief are ongoing, but persistent conflict and lack of resources pose daunting challenges that require immediate international attention and action.

Original Source: news.un.org