Haiti: Cholera update

Event

Nearly 1900 cases of cholera were reported nationwide during the month of January, including 28 deaths. As of late January, rates were highest in Artibonite department, followed by Centre, Nord, Nord-Ouest, and Ouest (home to the capital Port-au-Prince).

Cholera is an infectious disease caused by the Vibrio cholerae bacteria that can induce acute diarrhea. The risk of death is greatest among people with low immunity, such as malnourished children or those with HIV. However, even among healthy adults, cholera can be fatal within a matter of hours.

Context

Haiti has been battling a major cholera epidemic since October 2010, with spikes in cases regularly reported following flooding, which helps spread the bacteria. Nearly 800,000 cases have been reported since the beginning of the epidemic, including some 9500 deaths. A vaccination campaign was launched in early November 2016 following a spike in cases due to flooding and infrastructural destruction caused by Hurricane Matthew in early October. However, immunization only protects against the disease for six months.

Advice

To reduce the risk of contracting cholera, wash hands regularly, drink only bottled or purified water, and avoid eating raw or undercooked foods and any foods that cannot be disinfected (berries, ice cream, etc.). Individuals who believe they may have contracted cholera (or other illnesses) should seek immediate medical attention.