Cholera spreads through contaminated water and grows where sanitation systems have collapsed. In 2024 the World Health Organization received reports of 560,823 cases and 6,028 deaths. Reported infections rose by 5 per cent and deaths rose by 50 per cent from the previous year.
The disease affected many countries. Africa, the Middle East and Asia together made up 98 per cent of the global burden. The Eastern Mediterranean region had 74 per cent of global cases while holding less than 10 per cent of the world’s population. Yemen alone made up most cases and deaths in that region.
Climate shocks, conflict and damaged hospitals and water systems made outbreaks worse. Vaccines, clean water and better health services are needed to stop cholera.
Difficult words
- cholera — A serious disease from contaminated water.
- disease — An illness that affects health.
- spread — To move from one place to another.spreads
- infrastructure — The basic systems needed for a country.
- vaccination — A method to protect against diseases.
- access — The ability to use or reach something.
- campaigns — Organized efforts to achieve a goal.
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- What do you think can be done to improve water systems?
- Why is access to clean water important for health?
- How can communities work together to prevent diseases?
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