12 Jul 2017 | 01:44 AM UTC
Yemen: 10,000 new cholera cases in 24 hours /update 1
10,000 new cholera cases reported in 24 hours; tons of medical equipment arrive to fight epidemic
Event
Official numbers released on July 3 indicated that some 10,000 new cases of cholera had been reported within a 24-hour period in Yemen. The epidemic has spread to 21 of the country's 23 governorates and 83 percent of the districts. Since the beginning of this outbreak on April 27, 262,650 suspected cases of cholera and 1587 deaths have been reported (as of July 2).
The World Health Organization (WHO) reported a 403-ton shipment of medical supplies - including 20 ambulances, 100 cholera kits, hospital equipment, and 128,000 bags of intravenous fluids - arrived in Hodeida recently.
Context
Yemen has been engaged in a complex and deadly conflict since Houthi rebels started fighting the international coalition-backed government in 2015. Approximately 18.8 million people are in need of humanitarian assistance and the crisis has placed an overwhelming strain on the country's health system. Major health facilities have been destroyed in the conflict and aid deliveries are often blocked by rebels, stolen, or destroyed. The port of Hodeida, one of the largest ports 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.
The security environment in Yemen remains complex. Due to poor security conditions, many Western governments strongly advise their citizens against all travel to Yemen. Travel to the country should only be considered with proper security protocols in place.
