The conflict in Sudan has led to a surge in cholera and dengue cases amid a humanitarian crisis marked by severe hunger. Reports indicate over 28,000 cholera cases and 836 deaths in various states due to flooding and contaminated water systems. The healthcare infrastructure has largely collapsed, with approximately 80% of facilities unusable, further escalating the severity of the crisis. Immediate humanitarian intervention is critical.
The ongoing conflict in Sudan has devastated urban areas and crippled the healthcare infrastructure, just as cases of cholera and dengue fever are rising alarmingly amid severe hunger. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reported over 28,000 cholera cases and 836 deaths across 11 states between July 22 and October 28, with the actual number likely higher due to under-reporting. Cholera’s spread has been exacerbated by heavy rains that contaminated water supplies, particularly in Kassala, which reported the highest numbers of both cholera and dengue cases.
The Ministry of Health confirmed a new cholera wave beginning July 22, leading to urgent responses by health authorities and humanitarian organizations, including a vaccination campaign intended for 1.4 million individuals in affected regions. Simultaneously, severe hunger persists due to blockades and escalating violence in El Fasher, North Darfur, where conditions have been dire for the vulnerable population. Reports indicate that malnutrition levels remain above the famine threshold in internment camps, with the Zamzam camp facing confirmed famine conditions.
Though humanitarian efforts have scaled up to assist 12.6 million people, constant violence in conflict zones has led to the closure of approximately 80 percent of health facilities. Attacks on medical establishments have resulted in significant casualties among health workers and patients, further impeding healthcare services. Without adequate medical supply and support, preventable diseases may surge, posing an imminent threat to both children’s health and overall community resilience. The situation necessitates immediate international attention and collaborative efforts to mitigate the dire humanitarian crisis in Sudan.
Sudan has been embroiled in conflict, leading to widespread humanitarian challenges, including a collapsing healthcare system. As a result, healthcare access is severely compromised, with most facilities unable to operate effectively. The combination of war, poverty, and disease has created conditions ripe for crises, including famine and infectious outbreaks. The cholera and dengue fever surges are direct consequences of infrastructure damage, water contamination from flooding, and the systemic breakdown of public health measures. With millions displaced and struggling for basic needs, the response from humanitarian agencies is critical for survival and recovery.
In conclusion, the conflict in Sudan has precipitated a humanitarian crisis characterized by rising cholera and dengue fever cases, as well as extreme hunger leading to famine conditions. The situation is exacerbated by a severely weakened healthcare system, with widespread attacks on medical facilities limiting response efforts. Concerted action is paramount to address both immediate health needs and the longer-term challenges of supporting affected populations during this period of crisis.
Original Source: news.un.org
