Cholera is an intestinal infection caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. It remains one of the major causes of death in developing countries despite being preventable and treatable. The bacterium is usually transmitted through contaminated food and water. Cholera causes profuse watery diarrhea that can lead to severe dehydration and even death if untreated. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there are an estimated 1.3 to 4 million cases of cholera each year leading to 21,000 to 143,000 deaths. The figures could be higher due to underreporting from many affected areas. Cholera remains a significant global health threat, especially in areas with limited access to clean water and sanitation.
The Disease Primarily Affects Developing Nations in Africa and Asia
More than 90% of cholera cases occur in developing countries that lack adequate water, sanitation, and health infrastructure. Africa accounts for more than 70% of global cholera cases with several ongoing outbreaks and epidemics across sub-Saharan Africa. Countries like Nigeria, Democratic Republic of Congo, United Republic of Tanzania, and Mozambique frequently report large numbers of cases. South Asia comprising of India, Bangladesh, Nepal and Pakistan also sees high cholera transmission. Recurring natural disasters and conflicts increase vulnerability in these resource-poor settings.Cholera outbreaks additionally place a heavy burden on already strained healthcare systems in developing nations. Early diagnosis and treatment are challenging due to limited laboratory capacity and availability of trained healthcare workers.
Climate Change and Natural Disasters Worsen Cholera Outbreaks
The risk of Cholera Vaccines increases drastically during disasters like flooding due to contamination of water supplies. Studies have linked rising sea surface temperatures to increased cholera incidence in endemic regions. Climate change is making cholera outbreaks larger and more frequent in Asian and African coastal areas through sea-level rise, increased coastal flooding, and more intense rainfall events. The prolonged drought in Somalia from 2010 to 2012 preceded one of the most catastrophic cholera outbreaks on record affecting over 100,000 people. Similarly, the massive earthquake and tsunami in Haiti in 2010 led to epidemic cholera that infected over 800,000 individuals. Climate change and natural disasters can destroy water and sanitation infrastructure, overwhelm existing health services, and displace vulnerable populations increasing disease transmission during humanitarian emergencies.
Efforts to Control Cholera through Global Cholera Vaccine
To control cholera globally, the WHO emphasizes an integrated approach focusing on safe water, sanitation, and hygiene along with effective healthcare. Mass vaccination campaigns play an important supplementary role in reducing disease burden, especially during outbreaks. An oral cholera vaccine offers protection for 3-5 years and is prequalified by the WHO for use in endemic regions. Two doses of the vaccine provide around 60-90% protection against severe disease. Efforts are being made to stockpile vaccine doses through initiatives like the Global Task Force on Cholera Control for timely intervention during epidemics. Besides vaccination, improving access to clean water and basic sanitation is key to preventing transmission in the long term. Projects to develop water security, treat wastewater, and promote hygiene practices can help make communities more resilient to cholera. Sustained political will is needed to implement effective prevention strategies in resource-limited settings.
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