Cholera Outbreak Claims Nearly 100 Lives in Sudan’s White Nile State
In Sudan’s White Nile State, a cholera outbreak has led to almost 100 deaths since February 20, affecting over 2,700 individuals. The outbreak follows recent violent attacks and infrastructure damage caused by the RSF, complicating access to clean water. MSF and local health authorities are working to address the crisis, while the ongoing conflict further aggravates the public health situation.
In Sudan’s White Nile State, nearly 100 individuals succumbed to cholera within two weeks, as reported by Doctors Without Borders (MSF). Since February 20, over 2,700 people have contracted this waterborne disease, with 92 fatalities, including 18 children aged under nine. The outbreak has escalated due to ongoing conflict and infrastructure damage caused by the recent attacks from the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
The violent skirmishes, which began almost two years ago between the Sudanese army and RSF, intensified last month, resulting in significant civilian casualties. During an attack on February 16, RSF struck the Rabak power plant, resulting in power outages and limiting access to clean water, thus provoking the cholera outbreak. Residents resorted to water from donkey carts as pumps were inoperable.
Marta Cazarola, MSF’s emergency coordinator for Sudan, stated, “Attacks on critical infrastructure have long-term detrimental effects on the health of vulnerable communities.” As the outbreak peaked between February 20 and 24, Kosti Teaching Hospital struggled to accommodate the influx of patients suffering from severe dehydration. In response, MSF provided logistical support, including beds and tents.
The local Health Ministry acted to combat the outbreak by ensuring access to clean water and prohibiting the use of donkey carts for water transport. Additionally, vaccination campaigns were initiated when the outbreak began. Thus far, the health ministry has reported 57,135 cholera cases and 1,506 deaths across various states in Sudan, making this a serious health crisis amid ongoing war, which has claimed over 20,000 lives and displaced more than 14 million people.
The cholera outbreak in Sudan’s White Nile State has resulted in nearly 100 deaths in a short span, amidst heightened violence and deteriorating infrastructure. Efforts by health authorities and organizations such as MSF to mitigate the outbreak include providing clean water and logistical assistance, yet the broader context of ongoing conflict exacerbates challenges. The current situation underlines the urgent need for effective health interventions in war-affected regions.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
