14 May 2024 | 01:22 PM UTC
Comoros: Elevated cholera activity reported in multiple areas, especially Anjouan Island, in May /update 4
Elevated cholera activity reported in multiple areas in Comoros in May. Anjouan is most affected. Use food and water precautions.
Health authorities have reported elevated cholera activity in multiple areas in Comoros, with an additional 3,093 cases reported April 12-May 12, bringing the total case count to 5,677 cholera cases since Feb. 2. This is compared to no locally acquired cases reported in 2023. Anjouan Island (4,681 cases) is the most affected, followed by Grande Comore Island (543 cases), and Moheli Island (453 cases). Local health officials have urged the public to adopt disease prevention measures, including practicing food and water precautions and regularly washing hands. This report represents the most complete data available as of May 14.
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.
On Feb. 2, 2024, the Ministry of Health of Comoros officially declared an outbreak of cholera following the detection of six cases among the crew and passengers of a boat arriving from Tanzania. The initial cases were identified in the boat's crew and passengers, with a total of 11 imported cases confirmed from Feb. 1-14. The first locally acquired cases were reported from Feb. 4 onwards. Comoros' last cholera epidemic was reported in 2007.
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.
