Sudan Battles Its Most Severe Cholera Outbreak in Years with Over 40 Fatalities

Sudan is currently facing its most severe cholera outbreak in years, with at least 40 deaths reported in the Darfur region over the past week, according to aid organizations. The outbreak is compounded by ongoing conflict, especially in the western regions where fighting has persisted for over two years. Medical charity Doctors Without Borders (MSF) has documented that the western area has been the hardest-hit, with MSF teams treating over 2,300 patients and recording 40 fatalities just in the recent week. In total, nearly 99,700 suspected cholera cases have been reported in Sudan this year, with an estimated 2,470 deaths linked to the disease as of August 11. Cholera is an acute bacterial infection caused by ingesting contaminated food or water, leading to severe diarrhea, vomiting, and muscle cramps, and can be fatal within hours if untreated. The current crisis is worsened by mass displacements caused by ongoing conflict, which have hindered access to clean water and sanitation. Aid agencies warn that heavy rains and the destruction of infrastructure have exacerbated the spread of cholera, with displaced communities in camps being especially vulnerable. Communities in regions like Tawila face dire conditions, surviving on less than half the recommended minimum water intake per person daily. The World Health Organization highlights that Sudan has reported the highest cholera mortality rate globally this year, at 2.1%, significantly above the global average. The situation has prompted calls from the European Union and other nations for sustained humanitarian access and protection of civilians. The ongoing violence has led to the reinforcement of fighting in Darfur, with the last major city, El-Fasher, remaining under military control. Displacement camps are experiencing increasing cholera cases, with contaminated water sources and poor sanitation fueling the outbreak. Experts emphasize that preventing the disease requires urgent intervention, including access to clean water, improved sanitation, and effective medical response, to stop the further spread in Sudan and neighboring countries such as Chad and South Sudan.