10 October 2016 – The Ministry of Public Health and Population in Yemen has announced the occurrence of cholera cases in the capital city of Sana'a, Yemen. As of 8 October 2016, a total of 11 cases of cholera were laboratory-confirmed. The stool samples were tested positive for Vibrio cholerae at the Central Public Health Laboratory in Sana'a. No deaths have been reported so far. Most of the cases were reported from Sana'a. The cases appear to be spreading to the northern coastal areas, Aden in particular.
Acute watery diarrhoeal diseases are endemic in Yemen. It is the second most common cause of death, especially among infants and school children.
WHO, is coordinating with the Ministry of Public Health and Population and partners on the ground to undertake necessary public health measures to stop the transmission of Vibrio cholerae and prevent its spread to other areas. WHO is also supporting the Ministry to enhance surveillance, improve case management and raise community awareness in high-risk areas.
