Sudan's cholera outbreak has infected over 24,000, killed 699, and worsened due to conflict, poor health services, and mass displacement.

Hundreds of people have died, and thousands have been infected in Sudan's ongoing cholera outbreak, which has persisted for several months.

The Sudanese Ministry of Health reported on November 15 that cholera cases have surged to 24,604, including 699 deaths. The outbreak has now spread to 11 of Sudan's 18 states.

The "Cholera Interventions" report, released on the same day, highlighted a mixed trend in infection rates. While states such as Al-Jazeera, Sennar, and White Nile have seen an increase in cases, other states like Kassala, Khartoum, River Nile, Northern, and Gedaref have reported a decline, alongside a decrease in the number of people entering isolation centers.

Sudan's health sector is grappling with a severe crisis caused by over 18 months of ongoing conflict. This turmoil has led to the significant deterioration of medical services and a severe shortage of equipment and medicines, creating a breeding ground for epidemics and diseases. Health officials attribute the widespread cholera outbreak to these deficiencies and the inadequacy of preventive measures.

The humanitarian situation has been exacerbated by mass displacement following attacks by the Rapid Support Forces on villages in eastern Al-Jazeera. Hundreds of families fled to New Halfa city, taking refuge in open fields and schools. The lack of adequate health services and living conditions has contributed to the rapid spread of cholera.

In New Halfa, parts of the Faculty of Health Sciences have been converted into makeshift isolation facilities to provide care for those affected. Despite efforts by the Ministry of Health, local organizations, and charitable contributions from New Halfa residents, the situation remains dire. The influx of displaced people continues to strain the city's resources, posing an overwhelming humanitarian challenge.

"The health situation here is very poor, frankly," said Imad al-Din Maki, a displaced person from eastern Al-Jazeera. "More than 300 people, or about 250 people, use three bathrooms that are almost primitive."

The Federal Ministry of Health officially declared the cholera outbreak on August 12, 2024, signaling the scale of the ongoing health crisis.