Yemen: Dramatic increase in cholera cases and deaths

Event

Rates of cholera cases and deaths continue to rise at alarming levels across Yemen; according to the World Health Organization (WHO), as of Sunday, May 21, 29,300 cases of cholera were reported and 315 people had died due to the ongoing outbreak. This brings the total number of deaths attributed to the disease to more than 1500 since the start of the conflict two years ago, with some 17,200 suspected cases having been reported since May 17 alone. Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has deemed the situation “extremely alarming” and warns that international efforts to fight the outbreak are insufficient. The Houthi-held capital Sana’a remains the worst affected area, with a state of emergency declared last week.

Context

Yemen has been engaged in a complex and deadly conflict since Houthi rebels started fighting the international coalition-backed government in 2015.

In early 2017, the United Nations (UN) humanitarian aid office in Yemen announced that the civilian death toll had reached 10,000, with another 40,000 people wounded and ten million in need of emergency assistance. According to the UN, the country is on the brink of famine with seven million people going hungry. Approximately 18.8 million people are in need of humanitarian assistance and the crisis has placed overwhelming strain on the country's health system. Major health facilities have been destroyed by the conflict and aid deliveries are often blocked by rebels, stolen or destroyed. The port of Al-Hodeida, one of the largest port of the country is blocked by rebels and threatened by the conflict, which prevents international aid from entering the country.

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 compromised immune systems, such as malnourished children or those living with HIV. However, even among healthy adults, cholera can be fatal within a matter of hours.

Advice

To reduce the risk of contracting cholera, wash hands regularly, drink only bottled or purified water, and avoid eating raw or undercooked foods. Seek immediate medical care if you believe you may have contracted the disease. Regarding the overall situation in the country, the security environment in Yemen remains complex. Although travel is permissible in some areas, other areas should be considered strictly off limits. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel. Many Western governments advise their citizens against all travel to the country.