Somalia records 54 deaths in cholera outbreak

Somalia has been grappling with a cholera outbreak that has claimed the lives of at least 54 individuals over the past few months.

The situation escalated further as authorities reported a staggering increase in fatalities, with nine individuals succumbing to the disease in the past week alone.

This marks the highest number of deaths recorded within a single week since the outbreak began.

According to health officials, the outbreak has affected several thousand individuals across various regions of Somalia.

However, amidst the grim statistics, there is a glimmer of hope as the majority of those diagnosed with cholera have received prompt medical attention and treatment.

The outbreak has prompted urgent efforts from local health authorities, aid organizations, and international agencies to contain the spread of the disease and provide essential medical support to affected communities.

Access to clean water, proper sanitation, and hygiene education are being emphasized as crucial preventive measures in mitigating further transmission of the disease.

According to the World Health Organization, Cholera is an acute diarrhoeal infection caused by ingestion of food or water contaminated with the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. Cholera remains a global threat to public health and an indicator of inequity and lack of social development.

The UN health body added that Cholera is an extremely virulent disease transmitted through the ingestion of contaminated food or water. It can cause severe acute watery diarrhoea and the severe forms of the disease can kill within hours if left untreated.

Most people infected with V. cholerae do not develop any symptoms, although the bacteria are present in their faeces for 1–10 days after infection and are shed back into the environment, potentially infecting other people.

Among people who develop symptoms, the majority have mild or moderate symptoms. It takes between 12 hours and 5 days for a person to show symptoms. A minority of patients develop acute watery diarrhoea with severe dehydration. This can lead to death if left untreated.