Cholera Outbreak in Darfur Kills 40, Infects Thousands Amid War

By Staff Writer

CAIRO — Cholera is spreading fast in Darfur, killing 40 people and infecting more than 2,300 in just one week. Doctors Without Borders (MSF) says water shortages and a collapsed healthcare system have left communities highly vulnerable. The outbreak, the worst in years, comes amid the ongoing war in Sudan.

MSF reports that as of Monday, Sudan has recorded 99,700 suspected cholera cases and over 2,470 related deaths since July 2024. Initial vaccination campaigns slowed the spread, but poor hygiene and mass displacement have fueled a surge in new infections. Fighting in Darfur and Kordofan has displaced millions.

War’s Impact on Health Infrastructure

Sudan’s civil war began in April 2023 in Khartoum and quickly spread nationwide. Clashes between the Sudanese military, allied forces, and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have killed more than 40,000 people. The conflict has displaced around 12 million, triggered multiple disease outbreaks, and pushed millions toward famine.

The World Health Organization (WHO) calls cholera a “disease of poverty,” thriving where sanitation is poor and clean water is scarce. It spreads through contaminated food and water. While treatable with rehydration and antibiotics, severe cases can be fatal within hours.

Crisis in North Darfur

The situation is dire in Tawila, North Darfur, where 380,000 people have fled from violence near El Fasher. MSF says Tawila Hospital, built for 130 patients, treated about 400 cholera cases earlier this month. Many patients were forced to lie on the floor due to overcrowding.

El Fasher and surrounding areas face repeated attacks. On Monday, RSF forces reportedly attacked Abu Shouk displacement camp, killing 40 and injuring at least 19. The RSF denied targeting civilians but did not address the camp incident directly. They accused rival militias of using civilians as “human shields.”

Humanitarian Response Needed

Health workers warn that without urgent intervention, the cholera outbreak in Darfur could escalate further. MSF is calling for more clean water access, expanded treatment capacity, and stronger sanitation measures to prevent more deaths.

SOURCE: ABC News