Disease

Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever - Iraq

The Iraqi Ministry of Health reported Thursday that the number of Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) cases has risen to 119 across the country, with the most cases in Dhi Qar governorate (35) and Basra (18). A total of 18 CCHF deaths have been recorded.

Cholera

UNICEF reported earlier this month: Cholera doesn’t know borders. Despite being preventable and easily treatable, children continue to suffer from the potentially fatal disease. After years of steady decline, cholera has made a devastating comeback. More than 1.1 billion people in 43 countries are at risk, with children under 5 especially vulnerable.

Researchers conservatively estimate that every year, there are as many as 4 million cholera cases globally and as many as 143,000 deaths. Young children, especially those under the age of 5, bear the brunt of the disease. Furthermore, malnourished children are more vulnerable to experiencing severe symptoms. Cholera is a preventable and easily treatable disease.

In 2022, 30 countries faced cholera outbreaks – an alarming 145 per cent average increase from the previous five-year average. Countries like Lebanon and Syrian Arab Republic reported cholera for the first time in decades, while others like Haiti have experienced a resurgence after more than three years with no reported cholera cases. As of May 2023, at least 24 countries continue to report cholera cases, and outbreaks are spreading across borders.