Cholera vaccination campaign in Sudan

Since the cholera outbreak was officially declared in August 2023, the situation has deteriorated rapidly, with over 21,000 cases reported and a rising death toll. The majority of cases are concentrated in the eastern states, particularly Kassala, which has been severely impacted by recent heavy rainfalls and flooding. In response, UNICEF has initiated a vaccination campaign, distributing over 404,000 doses initially, with plans to expand efforts to reach 1.81 million people in the most affected areas. The campaign is critical not only for immediate prevention but also as part of broader disease control measures, including improving access to clean water and sanitation, enhancing disease surveillance, and ensuring that health facilities can effectively treat patients.

Vaccination Efforts and Challenges

• Initial Vaccine Distribution: On September 9, UNICEF delivered 404,000 doses of cholera vaccine to Sudan, with a UNICEF-chartered plane bringing an additional 1.4 million doses shortly after.
• Targeted Areas: The vaccination campaign focuses on regions with the highest incidence of cholera, including Kassala, River Nile, and Gedaref.
• Future Plans: Health authorities plan to roll out an additional 2.2 million doses in the coming weeks as part of their ongoing response to the outbreak.

Broader Context

The cholera outbreak is exacerbated by the ongoing conflict in Sudan, which has left the health system in “free fall,” with a significant proportion of health facilities nonfunctional. The war, which began in April 2023, has resulted in widespread displacement and has severely impacted the country’s ability to manage public health crises. As the situation evolves, health officials emphasize the importance of a multifaceted approach to controlling the outbreak, which includes vaccination, treatment, and community engagement to ensure access to clean water and sanitation.