Cholera: The Epidemic of Inequality
For several months, cholera has been rampant in southern Africa. Over 200,000 cases have been reported, with 3,500 deaths from the disease so far, and vaccines are on their way. Malawi, Zimbabwe, Mozambique – cholera cases are increasing, especially in the poorest countries of the region. Health experts say it hasn’t been this severe in the past three months. Since the outbreak began in the fall of 2023, more than 200,000 cases have been reported, and over 3,500 people have died from the disease.
What is particularly alarming is that the mortality rate in some countries is significantly higher than the usual rate of less than one percent. In Zambia, for example, four percent of the 9,000 patients have not survived the disease, according to Dr. Paul Ngwakum, a UNICEF health advisor for southern Africa. And over half of those infected are children under 15 years old.
Infection can lead to circulatory collapse and death
“Children are more susceptible because they are still growing, and their immune systems are not as strong,” explains the doctor. He also notes that in poor areas, children often play outside in the mud, puddles, and near waste bins. “This innocent fun can be deadly because they can get infected with cholera,” warns Ngwakum.
Cholera bacteria, the disease-causing agents, are mainly found in contaminated drinking water and food. Infection can lead to diarrhea. The significant loss of fluids and salts frequently causes circulatory collapse and muscle cramps. In severe cases, it can be life-threatening. The disease is particularly rampant in areas where there is no access to clean water and sanitation facilities.
“Cholera is the epidemic of inequality,” says the UNICEF health advisor. The disease disproportionately affects the poorest and most vulnerable people in the world who lack access to clean water and live in poor hygienic conditions.
Situation in affected regions is serious
The fact that many people traveled long distances and gathered for family celebrations during Christmas and New Year has accelerated the spread of the disease across borders.
In addition, there is the impact of climate change. Prolonged droughts, as well as heavy rainfall and floods, have worsened the quality of drinking water. The situation at the beginning of 2024 is extremely serious, according to UNICEF expert Ngwakum.
People need to change their social behavior
According to Ngwakum, there is a lack of relief supplies. External support is urgently needed to ensure that affected regions are provided with clean water and that cholera patients receive medical care. “But at the same time, people need to change their social behavior and understand what cholera is, how this disease is transmitted, and what can be done to prevent infection,” emphasizes the doctor.
However, all of this takes time. Therefore, there can be no talk of an easing in the current cholera epidemic at the moment.
