Cholera Spreading Rapidly in Lebanon, Says Health Minister

The Lebanese Minister of Health Firras Abiad said, on Friday, that Cholera has now emerged in Lebanon.

He added that Lebanon still has a chance to control the emergence of the bacteria, by applying all protective procedures, in addition to preparing the medical sector and institutions to take more patients. 

During his meeting with Acting Prime Minister Najib Mikati and the funding institutions the methods for combating the bacteria.

Moreover, they reviewed the ways of cleaning water centers, and the situation in the hospitals. 

Abiad pointed out to overview of the efforts of the supporting institutions for improving medical services and treatments such as UNICEF, and WHO.

Last Thursday, Lebanon recorded 41 new infections of Cholera cases, bringing the number of total infections to 346 cases since the outbreak of the bacteria in the country.

Regarding the number of deaths, it reached 14 after recording new three deaths.

The Lebanese Minister of Health Feras Abiad revealed that the majority of cases are in Akkar.

He added that the authorities do their best to restrict the emergence of the disease, warning of the tragic impact of the cases increase.

The official asserted that the ministry thoroughly observes the situation of the disease, in addition, all institutions are cooperating together to resist the bacteria.

According to authorities, the disease emerged among children under four years old by 32%, among children aged between 5 and 14 years old by 24%, and by 10% among adults aged between 15 and 24 years old.

Last week, UNICEF said in a report: "Following a cholera outbreak in Syria on 10 September 2022, the disease quickly spread, with Lebanon reporting its first case of cholera on 6 October 2022 and reaching 29 confirmed cases by 13 October in Akkar and Baalbek governorates."

The outbreak of the waterborne disease was linked to contaminated water near the Euphrates river before emerged nationwide, with thousands of suspected or confirmed cases reported.

UNICEF's statement added: "Cholera, a virulent bacterial infection caused by contaminated water or food, can spread quickly in areas with limited access to basic services such as safe water, sanitation, and health care."