The healthcare system in Sudan is collapsing amid increasing cases of cholera and dengue fever, with over 28,000 cholera infections and ongoing life-threatening hunger. The conflict has obstructed humanitarian aid, complicating a dire situation where healthcare facilities are largely non-functional due to violence and supply shortages. The UN and aid organizations are mobilizing efforts to address the urgent needs of affected populations.
The ongoing conflict in Sudan has led to catastrophic conditions, marked by a surge in cholera and dengue fever cases, prompting humanitarian crises across the nation. According to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), the cholera outbreak has resulted in over 28,000 infections and 836 deaths since late July, with severe impacts particularly in the Kassala state. Concurrently, dengue fever cases have also escalated. Aid organizations are struggling against a backdrop of violent conflict, fueling life-threatening hunger and inadequate healthcare resources.
The cholera epidemic in Sudan intensified following heavy rains and flooding that contaminated crucial water sources. Kassala was identified as the hardest-hit region, having reported a staggering number of cholera cases leading to numerous fatalities. Dengue fever has further complicated the health crisis, particularly affecting Kassala and Khartoum, where health authorities have notified thousands of cases. In response, Sudan’s Ministry of Health initiated a vaccination campaign targeting about 1.4 million at-risk individuals.
The blockade and intense fighting, especially in El Fasher, North Darfur, exacerbate the crisis, obstructing essential humanitarian supplies. Reports indicate alarming rates of acute malnutrition in displacement camps, notably in Zamzam, where conditions reached famine levels in August. Humanitarian aid delivery remains severely restricted due to ongoing hostilities, impacting vulnerable populations, especially children who receive treatment for malnutrition.
The healthcare infrastructure in Sudan has crumbled, with up to 80% of medical facilities in conflict regions either non-functional or closed. The World Health Organization (WHO) reported the closure of medical facilities and rampant violence against healthcare providers. Despite these challenges, numerous humanitarian organizations strive to increase their outreach and support for the millions affected by the dire humanitarian situation in Sudan, yet the scale of the crisis presents significant obstacles.
Sudan has been embroiled in conflict, especially since April 2023, where rival military factions, namely the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), have clashed violently. This persistent conflict has devastated infrastructure, particularly healthcare systems, and caused mass displacement. The UN and various aid organizations have expressed grave concerns over public health deteriorating alongside escalating hunger levels, resulting from both violent conflict and extensive supply delays. The cholera outbreak and dengue fever are manifestations of this broader humanitarian crisis, exacerbated by environmental factors and the collapse of essential services.
In conclusion, the humanitarian situation in Sudan is dire, marked by a substantial rise in cholera and dengue fever cases amid ongoing conflict. The breakdown of the healthcare system has hindered effective responses to these health crises, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced humanitarian assistance and conflict resolution. The continuity of hostilities remains a significant barrier to recovery efforts as millions face hunger and health risks in this beleaguered nation.
Original Source: news.un.org
