Cholera Crisis Escalates in West and Central Africa, Endangering Children
Recent reports from UNICEF highlight a severe and worsening cholera crisis in West and Central Africa, with an estimated 80,000 children at high risk. The combination of the ongoing rainy season, widespread flooding, and large-scale population displacement is creating ideal conditions for cholera transmission.
Key Highlights of the Outbreak:
Affected Countries: The outbreak is most critical in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Nigeria, which are driving the threat of cross-border transmission. Other nations experiencing ongoing epidemics include Chad, the Republic of Congo, Ghana, Côte d'Ivoire, and Togo. Niger, Liberia, Benin, the Central African Republic, and Cameroon are also under close surveillance due to their vulnerability.
Impact on Children: Children, particularly those under five, are disproportionately affected by the outbreak. In the DRC, the hardest-hit country in the region, children under the age of five account for over 25% of all cases. Their heightened vulnerability is linked to poor hygiene, a lack of sanitation and safe drinking water, and a greater susceptibility to severe dehydration.
Current Statistics: The Ministry of Health in the DRC reported over 38,000 cases and 951 deaths in July alone. The situation in the capital city, Kinshasa, is now critical, with a sharp increase in cases following intense rainfall and flooding. As of the end of June, Nigeria had reported 3,109 suspected cases and 86 deaths.
Urgent Needs: UNICEF and other humanitarian organizations are urgently calling for a scaled-up response to prevent the further spread of the disease. This includes strengthening healthcare, water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services, as well as supporting vaccination campaigns and community engagement. UNICEF has appealed for $20 million to fund its emergency response over the next three months.
I'm Aisha shehu
Talksocialtalka News
