Update on cholera cases in Yemen

13 October 2016 – The Ministry of Public Health and Population in Yemen has announced the occurrence of additional cases of cholera in Yemen. 

As of today, a total of 15 cases of cholera have been laboratory-confirmed, of which 11 are from Sana’a, and 4 from Al Bayda. The stool samples tested positive for Vibrio cholerae at the Central Public Health Laboratory in Sana'a. No deaths have been reported so far. 

The total number of suspected cases in Yemen is 186, of which 49 are from Al Hodeida and the rest distributed in Taiz, Lahj, Aden, Al Bayda and Sana’a.

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.

Related links

Cholera cases in Yemen, 10 October 2016

Ministry of Public Health and Population announces cholera cases in Yemen, 7 October 2016

Factsheet on cholera