Sudan’s health ministry announced a sharp rise in cholera cases across the central states of Sennar, Al Jazirah, and White Nile, with the total number of infections now reaching 23,736.
This follows the arrival of 1.4 million cholera vaccine doses on October 5, aimed at immunizing over one million people in the River Nile, Kassala, and Gedaref states. The vaccine shipment arrived after a previous inoculation drive in parts of Kassala.
“Infections are rising in Al Manaqil, Sennar, and White Nile, while we are seeing a decline in cases in River Nile, Kassala, and Gedaref,” the health ministry stated.
The ministry reported 134 new cholera cases and three additional deaths, bringing the cumulative total to 23,736 cases and 672 fatalities.
The cholera outbreak began on August 12, following destructive floods and torrential rains that left many areas waterlogged, creating ideal conditions for disease outbreaks.
Dr. Mohamed Ezz Al-Arab Al-Haj, the director of Sennar Teaching Hospital, reported 946 cases in Sennar, including 130 deaths. He added that 150 patients are still being treated at isolation centers. A new treatment center has been established in Deim Al-Mashaykha, and essential medical supplies are available at the hospital.
In parallel, the ministry reported an increase in dengue fever cases, with the total number now at 2,075 across six states. Twenty-five new dengue cases were recorded in Kassala.
The areas most affected by dengue fever include Karari and Omdurman in Khartoum, Bara in North Kordofan, and Kassala.
The actual number of cholera and dengue cases is believed to be significantly higher, as nearly 80% of healthcare facilities in conflict-affected zones remain closed, and up to 40% of facilities in other regions face operational disruptions.