Cholera Outbreak Response in Quara, Ethiopia: Situation Report February 2025
The cholera outbreak in Quara, Amhara, Ethiopia, began on July 15, 2023, affecting 60 woredas with nearly 5,000 cases reported and a CFR of 1.81%. A resurgence in January 2025 has intensified the crisis, yielding additional cases and fatalities. The International Medical Corps has provided essential health services in response, collaborating with local authorities to address the outbreak.
A cholera outbreak has been ongoing in the West Gondar Zone of Amhara, Ethiopia, since July 15, 2023. This epidemic has affected 60 woredas across 16 zones, resulting in 4,983 reported cases and 90 deaths, leading to a case fatality rate (CFR) of 1.81%. A resurgence occurred in January 2025, recording an additional 270 cases and five fatalities, with a CFR rising to 4.5% by February 18, 2025.
The International Medical Corps has been operational in Ethiopia since 2003, providing essential health services, nutrition programs, mental health support, maternal health care, food security initiatives, and water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services.
In response to the cholera outbreak in Quara woreda, the International Medical Corps has been working since February 12, 2025, with local health offices and authorities. Their efforts focus on implementing health and WASH interventions at two cholera treatment centers: Bermil CTC and Geligu CTC.
Teams from the International Medical Corps have engaged with community leaders and local stakeholders in Gendu Wuha and Geligu towns to devise effective intervention strategies against the outbreak. The recurring cholera incidents in Quara, particularly starting from the Bermil St. George Holy Water site, underscore the need for sustained public health efforts to manage this epidemic.
By early January 2025, the Bermil CTC had reported 181 cholera cases, indicative of the outbreak’s severity. With all cases originating either from Bermil or linked to travel there, the situation necessitates immediate and effective measures to control the spread of cholera and alleviate its effects on the local population.
The cholera outbreak in the Amhara region of Ethiopia represents a significant public health challenge, necessitating urgent intervention. The surge in cases and fatalities highlights the importance of ongoing public health initiatives and community involvement. The International Medical Corps continues to play a pivotal role in curbing this outbreak through collaboration with local health authorities and the implementation of effective treatment and support strategies.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
