29 Jan 2024 | 02:47 PM UTC
Somalia: Elevated cholera activity reported in multiple areas, especially in Beletweyne District, through January
Elevated cholera activity reported in multiple areas in Somalia through January. Beletweyne District is most affected.
Health authorities have reported elevated cholera activity in multiple areas in Somalia, with a total of 980 cholera cases reported Jan. 1-14. This is compared to the 472 cases reported over a similar period in 2022. The majority of the cases were reported from the Hiiraan and Shabeellaha regions in central Somalia, with the Beletweyne District (442 cases) being the most affected. Other districts reporting elevated disease activity include Kismayo (120 cases), Burhakaba (62 cases), Afgoye (57 cases), Bulo Burti (49 cases), Baidoa (43 cases), and Jowhar (41 cases). Risk communication and community education are ongoing in high-risk districts, including the distribution of awareness materials, the deployment of community health workers and outreach teams, and the dissemination of radio preventive messages on safe water handling and hygiene practices. This report represents the most complete data available as of Jan. 29.
Consult a travel medicine provider regarding cholera vaccination before traveling to the country. Practice strict food and water precautions. Seek immediate medical attention if symptoms develop within a week of being in areas of high cholera transmission.
Cholera is endemic in Somalia, with the current outbreak being a continuation of the outbreak from 2023. Health officials reported roughly 18,300 cases of cholera nationwide in Somalia in 2023, 15,653 cases in 2022, 6,205 cases in 2021, and 6,414 cases in 2020.
Cholera is transmitted directly through food or water contaminated with fecal material from an infected person. Most infected people develop no symptoms or only mild diarrhea. However, approximately one in 10 infected people develop severe cholera, which causes symptoms including profuse, watery diarrhea, vomiting, rapid heart rate, low blood pressure, muscle cramps, restlessness, or irritability. Symptoms typically appear two or three days after exposure but can develop up to five days after exposure. Individuals with severe cholera can develop acute renal failure, severe electrolyte imbalances, and coma. If left untreated, these can lead to shock and rapid death.
