First Famine, Now Cholera and Dengue Fever Surge Hits War-Torn Sudan
November 4, 2024
Khartoum, Sudan – Sudan is facing a triple public health crisis, with a worsening famine, a surge in cholera cases, and a rapid increase in dengue fever.
The country has been ravaged by conflict for decades, and the famine, which was officially declared in October, is the first in Sudan since 2017. The United Nations estimates that over 9.6 million people, or nearly a quarter of the population, are facing acute hunger.
“The situation is dire,” said Valerie Amos, Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator. “People are dying from hunger and disease, and the country is on the brink of collapse.”
In addition to the famine, Sudan is also battling a cholera outbreak that has claimed over 600 lives since July. The outbreak is the worst in Sudan in over a decade, and has spread to all 18 states in the country.
“The cholera outbreak is a major threat to public health,” said Dr. Ahmed Al-Mandawi, the World Health Organization’s representative in Sudan. “The country’s health system is already weak, and it is struggling to cope with the influx of patients.”
Compounding the crisis is a surge in dengue fever cases. Over 20,000 cases of dengue have been reported this year, and the number is expected to rise in the coming months.
“Dengue fever is a potentially deadly disease,” said Dr. Abdel-Rahman Al-Mahdi, a Sudanese health official. “The symptoms are similar to those of malaria, and it can lead to severe complications if not treated.”
The triple public health crisis is threatening to overwhelm Sudan’s health system. The country’s hospitals are overcrowded, and there is a shortage of medical supplies and personnel.
“The people of Sudan are facing an unprecedented humanitarian crisis,” said Amos. “The international community must act now to provide assistance and help the country recover.”
The United Nations has appealed for $1.5 billion to address the famine, cholera outbreak, and dengue fever surge. The United States has pledged $150 million in assistance, and other countries are also providing support.
“We are deeply concerned about the humanitarian crisis in Sudan,” said U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken. “The United States is committed to providing assistance to the people of Sudan and helping them build a better future for themselves.”
First famine, now cholera and dengue fever surge hits war-torn Sudan
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