Sudan cholera outbreak surpasses 60000 cases amid wider health crisis

In the past week, 498 new cholera infections were recorded, the majority in Khartoum state, bringing the total confirmed cases to 60,228, with 1,617 deaths across 88 localities in 12 states, the center said on Tuesday.

The report, presented at the center’s regular meeting on April 29, also highlighted a rise in other infectious diseases. Dengue fever cases increased by 127 in the past week, reaching a total of 11,893 with 20 deaths.

Measles cases rose by 132, totaling 1,092 across 38 localities in nine states, with no reported fatalities. Hepatitis infections saw an increase of 194, primarily in West Kassala locality, raising the cumulative count to 819.

Environmental health teams reported that out of 1,922 targeted water sources in five states, 78% were tested, with 936 meeting safety standards and 480 failing and being addressed. Inspections of food establishments reached 79% coverage.

A medical supply report indicated uneven distribution of essential medicines, with Nile River state having the highest stock levels (75%) and South Kordofan the lowest (25%). Some essential items, like IV fluids, were reportedly missing in several state warehouses, although new deliveries for humanitarian organizations have arrived in some areas.

Health authorities recorded the entry of 18,277 individuals through official crossing points and 9,512 departures. Emergency clinics treated 908 patients during the reporting period. Preparations for the upcoming Hajj season are underway, with international vaccinations being administered.

Mobile reproductive health clinics continue to operate in displacement shelters in Kassala, and maternal and child health services are ongoing across states.

A nutrition report highlighted assessments at a camp housing recently released detainees in Rabak, where 150 out of 154 individuals evaluated were enrolled in nutritional rehabilitation programs. Cases of blindness and tuberculosis were noted among the detainees, with some improvement observed after intervention.

Officials at the meeting emphasized the urgent need for measures to address the worsening health conditions in Khartoum, particularly in the Karrari and Jebel Aulia areas where cholera is spreading rapidly.

They also called for swift action to control the emergence of diphtheria in several states.”

sudanspost.com