The Ministry of Public Health and Population has published updated figures for cholera cases in the country.
A total of 2733 suspected cases and 51 associated deaths have been reported in Ta’iz, Aden, Lahij, Al Hudaydah, Hajjah, Sana'a, Al Bayda, Dhamar and Ibb. 75 cholera cases have been laboratory-confirmed so far.
While acute watery diarrhoeal diseases are endemic in Yemen, the ongoing conflict has stretched the capacity of the national health systems. More than 7.6 million people are currently living in areas affected by the outbreak, as well as more than 3 million internally displaced persons.
WHO is working in coordination with Ministry of Public Health and Population, UNICEF and partner nongovernmental organizations on the ground to run a joint Health and WASH taskforce to provide an integrated response.
This includes support for eDEWs/surveillance, laboratory support, establishment of 21 cholera treatment centres in affected governorates, training on early detection and management of cases, provision of essential supplies such as IV fluids, diarrhoeal disease kits, oral rehydration solutions and water chlorination kits.
WHO is also supporting social mobilization and health education among citizens to raise their awareness of cholera and diarrhoeal diseases.