The World Health Organisation (WHO) has disclosed that cholera has killed more than 3,000 people worldwide since the beginning of 2026, with Africa accounting for nearly nine out of every 10 recorded deaths.
According to the global health agency, although reported cholera deaths declined during the first nine months of the year, the disease continues to pose a serious public health threat, particularly in countries struggling with access to clean drinking water and proper sanitation.
The WHO also revealed that 2025 recorded approximately 7,900 cholera deaths, making it the deadliest year for the disease since 1999. The figures highlight the growing challenge of controlling outbreaks, especially in vulnerable communities affected by poverty, displacement and inadequate healthcare infrastructure.
The organisation, however, maintained that its global target of reducing cholera deaths by 90 per cent by 2030 remains achievable. The strategy focuses on early detection, vaccination, improved access to treatment and long-term investments in safe water, sanitation and hygiene.
The WHO further warned that changing weather conditions, including flooding and water shortages associated with the El Niño phenomenon, could increase the risk of further outbreaks.
Cholera is an acute diarrhoeal infection caused by consuming food or water contaminated with the bacterium *Vibrio cholerae*. It can cause severe dehydration and become fatal within hours if not treated promptly.
The WHO has urged countries to strengthen disease surveillance, expand vaccination programmes and improve access to clean water and medical care to prevent further deaths from the preventable and treatable disease.
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