Sudan: cholera outbreak worsening in Khartoum State amid water shortages

Several parts of Khartoum State are dealing with an escalating cholera outbreak, aggravated by power cuts and water shortages. Moreover, medical services in the capital are unable to fight the outbreak because affected by a lack of medical staff and basic supplies. On Thursday, May 22, the Sudan Doctors’ Network announced in a statement that cholera cases have surged significantly in the Khartoum area, with 183 reported at Al-Nau Hospital and many others at Bashair Hospital, Turkish Hospital in South Khartoum and Al-Ban Jadeed Hospital. However, in a post on Facebook, the Karari Committees Coordination said that cases at Al-Nau Hospital are over 200, compelling all shops near the facility to be closed. As the outbreak worsens, the Sudan Doctors’ Network urged the UN and regional health organizations to provide medical aid and chlorinated materials to Khartoum residents as soon as possible to curb the spread of the disease. Meanwhile, during a meeting on the state’s health situation, the Khartoum State Ministry of Health emphasized the importance of intensifying public awareness campaigns and preparing for a vaccination drive against the epidemic to limit its spread. It also added that it has developed a rapid plan to fight cholera supported by federal authorities and other organizations.