Cholera reaches Chad’s capital and northern provinces

The Ministry of Public Health has confirmed that the cholera outbreak, first detected in mid-June, has spread to Hadjer Lamis province and N’Djamena, Chad’s capital. Officials declared the epidemic on July 24, following the initial fatalities.

Vaccination campaign targets over 50,000 people

To stem the tide of infections, health authorities have launched an emergency vaccination campaign. More than 50,000 doses have already been administered, but officials warn that limited access to clean drinking water and sanitation infrastructure remains a critical challenge in controlling the disease.

Understanding cholera: transmission, treatment, and risks

Cholera spreads through contaminated water or food, leading to severe diarrhea and dehydration. While prompt rehydration and, in severe cases, antibiotics can save lives, the disease can prove fatal within hours without treatment. The World Health Organization has highlighted that Africa is grappling with multiple cholera outbreaks in recent months, including in the Central African Republic, Nigeria, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.