2016–2020 Yemen cholera outbreak

2016–2020 Yemen cholera outbreak
Scanning electron microscope image of Vibrio cholerae, the bacterium that causes cholera
Disease	Cholera
Source	Contaminated water
Location	Yemen
First outbreak	October 2016
Confirmed cases	Over 2.5 million (as of 2020)
Deaths	Over 3,900 (as of 2020)

The 2016–2020 Yemen cholera outbreak was one of the largest and most severe cholera outbreaks in recent history, occurring amidst the ongoing Yemeni Civil War. The outbreak began in October 2016 and continued until 2020, affecting millions of people and resulting in thousands of deaths.

Background

Yemen has been embroiled in a civil war since 2014, which has severely impacted the country's infrastructure, including its healthcare system and water sanitation facilities. The conflict has led to widespread displacement, food insecurity, and a collapse of public services, creating ideal conditions for the spread of infectious diseases such as cholera.

Cholera in Yemen

Cholera is an acute diarrheal illness caused by infection of the intestine with the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. People can become infected by drinking water or eating food contaminated with the bacterium. In Yemen, the breakdown of sanitation systems and lack of access to clean water have been major factors contributing to the outbreak.

Timeline of the Outbreak

The outbreak was first reported in October 2016. By the end of 2016, thousands of cases had been reported. The situation worsened in 2017, with the World Health Organization (WHO) declaring it the worst cholera outbreak in modern history. Efforts to control the outbreak were hampered by the ongoing conflict, which restricted access to affected areas and limited the delivery of medical supplies.

In 2018, the number of new cases began to decline, but the outbreak persisted due to continued challenges in accessing clean water and healthcare. By 2020, over 2.5 million suspected cases had been reported, with more than 3,900 deaths.

Response and Challenges

The response to the cholera outbreak in Yemen involved multiple international organizations, including the World Health Organization, UNICEF, and various non-governmental organizations. Efforts focused on improving water sanitation, providing medical treatment, and distributing oral cholera vaccines.

However, the response faced significant challenges due to the ongoing conflict, which made it difficult to reach affected populations and deliver aid. The destruction of infrastructure and blockades further complicated relief efforts.

Impact

The cholera outbreak had a devastating impact on Yemen's population, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in the country. It highlighted the critical need for improved water sanitation and healthcare infrastructure, as well as the importance of addressing the underlying causes of the conflict.

Also see

• Yemeni Civil War (2014–present)
• Cholera
• World Health Organization
• UNICEF