Cholera Outbreak Devastates Sudanese City, Claiming 58 Lives and Infecting 1,300 in Just Three Days, Health Officials Warn

A cholera outbreak in Kosti, a city in southern Sudan, has resulted in nearly 60 deaths and approximately 1,300 cases of illness over the past three days, according to health authorities. The outbreak, reported on February 22, 2025, is primarily attributed to contaminated drinking water following the disruption of the city’s water supply by a paramilitary group.

The cholera outbreak in Kosti has raised serious health concerns as local authorities scramble to contain the spread of the disease. The Ministry of Health reported that the outbreak began between February 20 and 22, 2025, with 58 fatalities and 1,293 confirmed cases. Contaminated drinking water is believed to be the primary cause, exacerbated by the ongoing conflict in the region.

Health officials have initiated several measures to combat the outbreak, including:

• Launching a vaccination campaign against cholera in Kosti.
• Expanding the capacity of isolation centers in collaboration with international medical organizations.
• Implementing stricter chlorination protocols in the water distribution system.

Doctors Without Borders has reported that their treatment center in Kosti is overwhelmed, forcing them to use emergency rooms for additional patient care. Dr. Francis Layoo Ocan, the medical coordinator for the organization, described the situation as “alarming,” with patients being treated in open areas due to a lack of beds. The White Nile River has been identified as a potential source of the outbreak, as many families have resorted to collecting water from it following a major power outage.

Cholera remains a significant health threat in Sudan, with a history of outbreaks linked to poor sanitation and contaminated water. The country has experienced severe outbreaks in the past, including one that resulted in over 600 deaths and more than 21,000 cases last year. As the situation develops, health authorities are urging residents to adhere to safety measures to prevent further spread of the disease.

The cholera outbreak in Kosti underscores the critical public health challenges facing Sudan amidst ongoing conflict and instability. With health resources strained, the effectiveness of the response efforts will be crucial in preventing further loss of life.