Geneva, Switzerland – The World Health Organization (WHO) has released alarming statistics on the global cholera situation, revealing a 13% increase in reported cases and a 71% rise in deaths in 2023 compared to the previous year. The disease, which is preventable and easily treatable, claimed the lives of over 4,000 people last year.
The WHO report shows that 45 countries reported cholera cases, with 38% of those cases affecting children under the age of five. The geographical distribution of the disease shifted significantly, with a 125% increase in cases reported in Africa.
Conflict, climate change, and inadequate access to safe water and sanitation contributed to the rise in cholera outbreaks. The WHO notes that many countries reported a high proportion of community deaths, indicating gaps in access to treatment.
The global cholera crisis continues into 2024, with 22 countries currently reporting active outbreaks. The WHO has appealed for $50 million to respond to cholera outbreaks this year, but this need remains unmet.
The organization is responding to the crisis by supporting countries with strengthened public health surveillance, case management, and prevention measures, as well as providing essential medical supplies and coordinating field deployments with partners.
WHO/Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
