Yemen Bears World’s Highest Cholera Burden, Deepening Humanitarian Crisis
December 23, 2024
Yemen continues to face a devastating humanitarian crisis, with the world’s highest cholera burden adding to the suffering of millions. According to the latest report from the World Health Organization (WHO), Yemen has recorded over 3 million suspected cholera cases since the outbreak began in 2017.
“Yemen is facing an unprecedented health crisis,” said Dr. Michael Ryan, Executive Director of WHO’s Health Emergencies Programme. “Cholera is a deadly disease that can spread rapidly in areas with poor sanitation and hygiene.”
The conflict in Yemen has severely weakened the country’s health system, making it difficult to contain the outbreak. The ongoing fighting has destroyed hospitals and health centers, and many healthcare workers have fled the country.
The United Nations estimates that over 19 million people in Yemen need humanitarian assistance, including access to clean water and sanitation. The country’s infrastructure has been decimated, and many communities lack basic services.
Cholera is a waterborne disease that is spread through contaminated food or water. It can cause severe diarrhea and vomiting, leading to dehydration and even death. Children under the age of 5 are particularly vulnerable to the disease.
The WHO report found that children accounted for over half of the suspected cholera cases in Yemen. The mortality rate for children under the age of 5 is also higher than for adults.
“The situation in Yemen is heartbreaking,” said Dr. Ryan. “Families are struggling to survive in the midst of a conflict that has no end in sight. Cholera is a preventable disease, but it is thriving in Yemen because of the ongoing humanitarian crisis.”
The WHO and other humanitarian organizations are working to contain the cholera outbreak and provide essential services to the people of Yemen. However, they face significant challenges, including ongoing fighting and limited resources.
“The international community must do more to help Yemen,” said Dr. Ryan. “We need to provide humanitarian assistance, support the health system, and work towards a political solution to the conflict that is causing so much suffering.”
Yemen bears world’s highest cholera burden, deepening humanitarian crisis
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