N’Djamena, Chad – The Chadian Ministry of Health announced in its latest official report that the cholera outbreak in the country has risen to 13 deaths and 239 confirmed cases since the outbreak was officially declared on July 24. This increase comes amidst intensified efforts to contain the epidemic. The epidemic currently has a mortality rate of 5.4%.
Details of the epidemiological situation and national mortality rates
According to the official bulletin issued by the Ministry, the total number of registered cases nationwide as of last Monday reached approximately 239, including 13 deaths. The data confirmed that the 5.4 percent mortality rate reflects the severity of the epidemiological situation in the affected areas. Therefore, an urgent health response is required to curb the spread of the bacteria causing the disease. The disease is often transmitted through contaminated water.
The main hotspots and concentrations of infections in the capital
The Chadian Ministry of Health explained that the current outbreak is primarily and directly affecting the Hadjer-Lamess region in the north of the country. The outbreak is also affecting the capital, N’Djamena. Furthermore, the severity of the outbreak has been particularly concentrated in densely populated urban areas. Eleven of the 13 deaths recorded in August alone occurred in the capital. This highlights the rapid spread of the infection in large population centers.
Vaccination efforts and urgent preventive campaigns
In a related development, and as part of ongoing efforts to control the pandemic and minimize casualties, the Ministry reported that approximately 50,800 people have been vaccinated since the official outbreak was declared on July 24. The preventative campaign has focused on curbing the spread of the disease in the most critical areas. However, records indicate that the first deaths linked to the pandemic occurred more than a month before the official declaration. Specifically, the first deaths were recorded on June 13.
A widespread cholera outbreak in Africa
These alarming health developments come at a time when several African countries are experiencing simultaneous cholera outbreaks. The Central African Republic, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Nigeria have all reported sporadic cases and deaths from the disease. This reflects a broader regional health challenge that requires close cooperation and international support to contain the disease. Moreover, such cooperation is needed to prevent its spread in the region.
