23 Feb 2024 | 02:35 PM UTC
Somalia: Elevated cholera activity reported in multiple areas, especially Hirshabelle, in February /update 1
Elevated cholera activity reported in multiple areas in Somalia in February. Hirshabelle is most affected. Use food and water precautions.
Health authorities have reported elevated cholera activity in multiple areas in Somalia, with an additional 1,587 cases reported Jan. 15-Feb 11. bringing the total case count to 2,567 cholera cases since Jan. 1. This is compared to the 916 cases reported over a similar period in 2023. Hirshabelle State (1,327 cases) is the most affected, followed by the Southwest State (760 cases), Jubaland Region (253 cases), and Banadir Region (237 cases). Risk communication and community education are ongoing in high-risk districts, and health officials are strengthening disease surveillance and laboratory capacity. This report represents the most complete data available as of Feb. 23.
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 cholera cases 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.
