29 Apr 2020 | 12:28 PM UTC
Cameroon: Cholera outbreak reported nationwide as of April 24
WHO confirms 1430 cholera cases nationwide as of April 24; further spread of the disease expected in the near term
Event
As of Friday, April 24, the WHO has confirmed at least 1430 cases of cholera and 43 associated deaths nationwide in 2020 with the northern regions most severely affected. On April 24, local health authorities also recorded three deaths in the Bonaberi neighbourhood of the southern city of Douala.
Further spread of the disease is to be anticipated in the coming weeks.
Context
Cholera is typically spread via infected water supplies and induces acute diarrhea leading to severe dehydration, frequently resulting in death. 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
Individuals in Cameroon are advised to take preventative measures against the spread of disease, particularly cholera (e.g. drink bottled water, consume thoroughly cooked food, take vaccinations, etc.) and malaria (e.g. sleep with mosquito nets, take malaria medication, wear protective clothing during nighttime and dusk hours, etc.).
