07 Jun 2024 | 10:43 AM UTC
Yemen: Elevated cholera activity reported in multiple areas in early June
Elevated cholera activity reported in multiple areas in Yemen in early June. Use strict food and water precautions.
Health officials have reported elevated cholera activity in multiple areas in Yemen, with more than 59,000 suspected cases reported since Jan. 1. Data on the most affected areas nationwide is limited due to the lack of data available in many governorates. Official data is only collected from the Internationally Recognized Government (IRG) areas of Yemen, with a total of 9,186 cases (869 confirmed cases) reported from Jan. 1-May 26. This is higher than the 969 cases reported in the IRG areas over a similar period in 2023. Aden (2,144 cases) is the most affected IRG area, followed by Al Dhale'e (2,092 cases), Lahj (1,833 cases), Taizz (1,317 cases), Al Hudaydah (511 cases), Abyan (490 cases), and Marib (324 cases). International health authorities have launched an outbreak response in multiple governorates, providing training for medical and non-medical staff, supporting treatment at health facilities, donating medical supplies, and carrying out health promotion activities. This report represents the most up-to-date information as of June 7.
Consult a travel medicine provider before departure regarding cholera vaccination. Practice strict food and water precautions. Seek immediate medical attention if symptoms develop within a week of being in affected areas.
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 2-3 days after exposure, but can develop up to 5 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.
