The global fight against cholera has suffered a setback, according to new data released by the World Health Organization (WHO).The global cholera statistics for 2024 reveal a concerning increase in both infections and fatalities linked to the disease.

In 2024, reported cholera cases increased by 5% compared to 2023, while deaths saw a more dramatic rise of 50%. More than 6000 people succumbed to the illness, which is both preventable and treatable.The actual figures are likely higher due to underreporting.

The rise in cholera cases is attributed to several factors, including conflict, climate change, population displacement, and chronic deficiencies in water, sanitation, and hygiene infrastructure. Cholera is caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae, which spreads through water contaminated wiht faeces.

Sixty countries reported cholera cases in 2024, up from 45 the previous year. The majority of cases (98%) were concentrated in Africa, the Middle East, and Asia.

Outbreaks expanded in scope, with 12 countries reporting over 10 000 cases each. Seven of these countries experienced large outbreaks for the first time. The resurgence of cholera in Comoros, after more than 15 years without reported cases, highlights the ongoing risk of global transmission.

“WHO assesses the global risk from cholera as very high, and is responding with urgency to reduce deaths and contain outbreaks in countries around the world.”

Challenges in Healthcare Access

The case fatality ratio in Africa rose from 1.4% in 2023 to 1.9% in 2024, indicating critical gaps in access to life-saving care and highlighting the fragility of manny health systems. A important proportion (one quarter) of deaths occurred outside of health facilities, underscoring the need to improve community-level access to treatment.

To effectively combat cholera, governments, donors, and communities must prioritize access to safe water and hygiene facilities, provide accurate data on prevention, and ensure rapid access to treatment and vaccination during outbreaks. Strong surveillance and diagnostics are also crucial. Increased investment in vaccine production is essential.

A new oral cholera vaccine (OCV), Euvichol-S®, was prequalified in early 2024 and added to the global stockpile. This helped maintain stockpile levels above the emergency threshold for the first half of 2025. However, high demand led to the continuation of a single-dose regimen throughout 2024 and into 2025. requests for 61 million OCV doses were made in 2024, with a record 40 million approved for emergency use in 16 countries.Supply constraints continue to be a challenge.

Preliminary data indicates that the global cholera crisis continues in 2025, with 31 countries reporting outbreaks since the beginning of the year.

The WHO considers the global risk from cholera to be very high and is working to reduce deaths and contain outbreaks. The organization supports countries through surveillance, case management, prevention, provision of medical supplies, coordination with partners, and risk communication.