Cholera outbreaks after heavy rains and flooding have intensified Yemen’s conflict, straining its healthcare system. In western Hais, a clinic has been overwhelmed with probable cholera patients, overwhelming medical staff.
The Hais clinic has documented 530 probable cholera cases since early August, leading to concerns that the outbreak could spread. Dr. Bakil al-Hadrami, a diarrhoea treatment centre doctor, warned of a “medical crisis” without prompt action. Hais is in crisis, with staff overworked and key services in jeopardy.
The UN has warned of roughly 164,000 probable cholera cases in Yemen, which could climb to 250,000 in weeks. The flooding, which killed 60 and affected 268,000, added to the cholera pandemic by contaminating water sources.
Due to damage from nearly a decade of war, Yemen’s hospital system is unable to handle this catastrophe. Due to water shortages, starvation, and medical facility devastation, the population is prone to water-borne infections. The latest floods have also displaced landmines, making relief delivery riskier.
The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) has called for a stronger response to prevent future deterioration. Yemen’s war and disease crises require international support to avoid a humanitarian disaster.
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