Cholera outbreak declared in Sudan

On September 26, 2023, the Federal Ministry of Health in Sudan officially declared a cholera outbreak in Gedaref State, with a total of 264 suspected cases, 4 confirmed cases and 16 deaths (1). Suspected cases have also been reported in Khartoum and South Kordofan States, although the authorities have not been able to confirm these outbreaks due to limited access (2). Across the border in Ethiopia, a cholera epidemic has been ongoing since August 2022, affecting many regions including the border areas with Sudan (3).

Since April 2023 when the war erupted between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces, Sudan has been experiencing unprecedented mass displacement of civilians. Approximately 5.4 million people have fled their homes (3). Due to the conflict, the health system is on the verge of collapse due to limited medical supplies, health workers and funding. Over 70% of hospitals are out of service, and the functional hospitals and clinics are overwhelmed (2).

The Ministry of Health is coordinating efforts to improve access to clean water and sanitation facilities and raise awareness concerning proper hygiene practices to reduce contamination risks and prevent further spread of the outbreak (1).