Yemen Becomes World’s Second-Largest Cholera Outbreak Zone

The United Nations has confirmed that Yemen is witnessing the world’s second-largest cholera outbreak, with more than 81,000 new suspected cases reported since the beginning of this year.

According to a World Health Organization (WHO) report released earlier this week on the global epidemiological update, Yemen recorded over 81,000 suspected cases of cholera and acute watery diarrhea between 1 January and 28 September 2025.

The report added that 225 deaths linked to the outbreak were recorded during the same period, marking Yemen as the country with the third-highest fatality rate globally, after South Sudan and Afghanistan.

Meanwhile, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has warned that the loss of access to medical care is endangering the lives of mothers in Yemen.

In a statement on its official X account, the agency noted that Yemen continues to record the highest maternal mortality rates in the region, as many births occur without essential medical care, posing a serious risk to both mothers and newborns.

The UNFPA explained that its cash assistance and voucher programs are helping women access safe maternal and childbirth care when needed.

With donor support, the organization aims to make healthcare more accessible, available, and of higher quality. However, it cautioned that medical fees, transport costs, and long distances remain insurmountable barriers, especially as half of Yemen’s health centers remain out of service.