WHO Raises Alarm Over International Cholera Resurgence

WHO Raises Alarm Over International Cholera Resurgence

The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported a significant increase in Cholera cases globally, with nearly 195,000 cases and over 1,900 deaths across 24 countries so far this year. Regions most affected include the Eastern Mediterranean, Africa, the Americas, Southeast Asia, and Europe.

Despite depleting its stockpile of Oral Cholera Vaccines (OCV) by March, WHO managed to exceed its emergency target by early June, distributing over five million doses in 2024. However, demand continues to outstrip supply, with requests for 92 million doses since last year, double the available production of 49 million.

In collaboration with UNICEF and other partners, WHO is striving to find sustainable solutions to combat cholera. On a positive note, WHO announced Chad’s successful elimination of sleeping sickness as a public health concern, marking a significant milestone in global health efforts.