Haiti: Cholera outbreak continues in multiple departments, especially Ouest, through Jan. 16 /update 3

Event

Haitian health authorities have reported elevated cholera activity, with 3,858 additional suspected cases reported Jan. 4-16, bringing the total to more than 24,450 suspected cases, of which 1,870 cases are confirmed. All ten departments have reported cholera activity, with the majority of confirmed cases reported in Ouest Department (1,144 cases) followed by Centre (287 cases), Artibonite (85 cases), and Sud-Est (83 cases). As of Jan. 16, health officials report 496 cholera-related deaths representing a 2.6 percent case fatality rate. The current outbreak has worsened because of continued civil unrest, gang violence, and insecurity which has hampered health operations and epidemiological surveillance. This represents the complete data available as of Jan. 26.

Context

Haiti's last notable cholera outbreak occurred in 2012, when 3,593 cases were reported; the outbreak was primarily a consequence of the impacts of Hurricane Sandy. 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 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.

Advice

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.