Yemen: Cholera epidemic continues as of mid-October /update 2

Event

According to health officials, over 1.2 million suspected cholera cases have been reported across Yemen between April 2017 and September 2018. New cases per week have steadily increased for over 12 weeks in a row, with 15,201 cases being reported during the third week of September alone. Further spread of the disease is to be anticipated over the coming weeks.

Context

Since April 2017, over 1.2 million suspected cases of cholera have been reported, resulting in 2510 deaths. The military conflict between the Saudi-led pro-government coalition and Houthi rebels since May 2015 has resulted in a political and humanitarian crisis that has left 10,000 people dead and 8 million Yemenis at risk of famine.

Cholera is an infectious disease caused by the Vibrio cholerae bacterium that can induce acute diarrhea. The risk of death is greatest among people with compromised immune systems, such as malnourished children or those living with HIV. However, even among healthy adults, cholera can be fatal within a matter of hours.

Advice

Individuals planning travel to or in Yemen are strongly advised to receive cholera vaccinations. It is also advised to stock up on food and bottled water, and conserve water as much as possible.

The security environment throughout the country remains complex, and due to poor security conditions, most Western governments strongly advise their citizens against all travel to Yemen. Travel to the country should only be considered with proper security protocols in place, and professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.