Mirian Gom 
Abuja, Nigeria – The World Health Organisation (WHO) confirms cholera killed more than 6,000 people in 2024, a 50 per cent increase compared with 2023.
The disease, although preventable and treatable, continues to claim thousands of lives worldwide.
Rising cases across countries
WHO data show cholera cases rose by 5 per cent in 2024, with outbreaks reported in 60 countries, up from 45 the year before. Africa, Asia, and the Middle East together accounted for 98 per cent of all cases.
Drivers of the surge
Conflict, climate change, population displacement, and poor sanitation systems are driving the spread. Cholera, caused by Vibrio cholerae bacteria in contaminated water, remains one of the fastest-spreading waterborne diseases.
Fatalities increase in Africa
In Africa, the case fatality ratio rose from 1.4% to 1.9% in 2024. WHO notes that one in four deaths occurred outside health facilities, exposing deep gaps in access to treatment and fragile health systems.
Vaccine supplies under pressure
The rollout of the new oral cholera vaccine, Euvichol-S®, boosted global stockpiles in 2024. Yet demand far exceeded supply, forcing a shift to single-dose regimens. More than 40 million doses were deployed for emergency campaigns across 16 countries.
Outlook for 2025
Preliminary figures show cholera continues to spread in 2025, with 31 countries already reporting outbreaks. WHO assesses the global risk as very high and is urging urgent action on safe water, vaccination, surveillance, and rapid treatment access.
About the Author
Hussaini Ibrahim 
