The World Health Organization (WHO) announced today that the cholera epidemic is worsening worldwide, with more than 400,000 cases recorded in 31 countries since the beginning of 2025. The organization warned that the overall situation “continues to deteriorate,” fueled by conflict, poverty, and weak infrastructure.
Between January and August 17, WHO recorded 409,222 cases and 4,738 deaths globally. While the number of infections dropped by 20% compared to last year, fatalities increased by 46%. The organization noted that mortality rates in six countries exceed 1%, pointing to serious gaps in case management and delayed access to treatment.
Sudan remains the most affected country, with more than 2,400 deaths across 17 of its 18 states, according to UNICEF. Cholera has also resurfaced in countries that had not reported major outbreaks for years, such as the Republic of the Congo and Chad, which recorded the world’s highest mortality rates at 7.7% and 6.8%, respectively, according to news reports.
WHO emphasized that conflicts, mass displacement, natural disasters, and climate change have created conditions for rapid disease spread, especially in flood-hit rural areas with poor infrastructure and limited healthcare access. The organization warned that the risk of further spread within and between countries remains extremely high.
Cholera, caused by consuming contaminated water or food, often leads to acute diarrhea. While the disease can be treated easily through rehydration, it can cause death within hours if untreated.
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