WHO Warns of Worsening Global Cholera Outbreaks

The World Health Organization (WHO) sounded the alarm over the worsening spread of cholera worldwide, warning that conflicts, poverty, and climate-related disasters are fueling a growing health crisis.

According to the latest outbreak update, between January 1 and August 17, 2025, more than 409,000 cholera cases and 4,738 deaths were reported across 31 countries. Six of those nations recorded a case fatality rate above 1%.

The Eastern Mediterranean region reported the highest number of infections, while the African region registered the most deaths.

The report highlights that armed conflicts, mass displacement, natural disasters, and climate change are accelerating transmission, particularly in rural areas and flood-affected regions with weak infrastructure and limited access to healthcare. 

These cross-border challenges have made the outbreaks more complex and harder to contain.

The WHO stressed that the only sustainable long-term solution to end the current cholera emergency and prevent future crises lies in ensuring access to clean drinking water, sanitation, and proper hygiene services.