Cholera outbreaks spreading around the world are becoming more deadly. Deaths from the diarrheal disease rose sharply last year, far outpacing the increase in cases, according to a new analysis from the World Health Organization.

Cholera is easy to prevent and inexpensive to treat, but massive outbreaks have overwhelmed even the well-prepared health systems of countries that have not encountered the disease for years.

The number of cholera deaths globally last year was 71% higher than in 2022, while the number of reported cases rose by 13%. Much of this increase was due to conflict and climate change, the WHO report said.

Cholera deaths increased by 71% in 2023 compared to 2022, while reported cases increased by only 13%. WHO blames this alarming trend on conflict and climate change, which have exacerbated the spread of the disease.

World Health Organisation researchers highlight how cholera, which has plagued the poorest people lacking clean water for thousands of years, is still being overlooked.

WHO estimates that there will be more than 4,000 official cholera deaths in 2023, but the actual number may be as high as 100,000. Cholera can cause death from dehydration within a day if not treated with simple measures such as oral rehydration salts or IV fluids.

The number of affected countries will increase to 45 in 2023, and Africa will see a 125% increase in cases compared to last year.

Cholera can cause death within a day due to dehydration as the body tries to flush out the toxic bacteria through vomiting and watery diarrhea. It is caused by bacteria called Vibrio cholerae. To deal with this diarrhea, oral rehydration salts (ORS) should be given.

Cholera cases were reported in 45 countries in the year 2023, whereas the number of such cases was 35 in the year 2021.
The global burden of the disease has shifted from the Middle East and Asia to Africa, where cases are expected to increase by 125% in 2023 compared to the previous year.

In India, lack of hygiene and proper sanitation are still major issues causing cholera outbreaks. In some areas, water supplies may be contaminated with bacteria due to poor infrastructure or natural contamination.

“The monsoon season in India can lead to widespread flooding and increase the risk of cholera. In densely populated urban slums and rural areas, sanitation infrastructure may be inadequate,” said Dr Vibhu Kawatra, a pediatrician.

Children, the elderly, and pregnant women are particularly vulnerable to cholera due to weakened immunity and socio-economic factors.

Dr Sunita Nagpal, General Physician and Practitioner at Salubritas Medcenter, told IndiaToday.in that religious events like the Kumbh Mela in India attract tourists from across the country, but hygiene and water sanitation are not maintained, leading to the spread of diseases.

“The disease has become a financial burden on India and as it spreads to new areas from rural to urban areas, the rise in multi-drug resistance may pose challenges in controlling the disease,” Dr Nagpal said.

Is there a vaccine available against cholera?

Yes, vaccines are available against cholera. But due to limited stock of vaccines and lack of comprehensive surveillance, cholera remains a major problem in India.

There are three vaccines available to prevent cholera – Dural, Shanchol and Euvicol. These are given in two doses.