LONDON/GENEVA, 23 December 2024 – Three deadly diseases—dengue, cholera, and mpox—experienced significant resurgences in 2024, primarily driven by climate change and conflict. These illnesses have placed immense strain on communities and are expected to continue affecting lives in 2025 without increased global attention, according to Save the Children.
Deadly Surge in Infections
This year, more than 13,600 individuals, including children, fell victim to these diseases. Cases of dengue and mpox reached record levels, whereas cholera showed a slight decline in cases, accompanied by a troubling 126% increase in fatalities.
The Cholera Outbreak
Cholera has been particularly devastating, with nearly half a million cases reported globally. By the end of September, 3,432 deaths had been recorded—a 126% increase in mortality compared to the same period in 2023. The high death toll is largely attributed to outbreaks in conflict zones and areas affected by flooding, where healthcare access and infrastructure are severely compromised.
According to the World Health Organization, the number of cases in 2024 is 16% lower than in 2023. However, the spike in deaths is deeply concerning and underscores the urgency of addressing this public health crisis.
Mpox Emergency
The mpox virus saw a significant increase in infections, prompting the World Health Organization and the Africa Centre for Disease Control to declare it a public health emergency of international concern in August 2024. Major outbreaks occurred in the Democratic Republic of Congo and neighboring countries, disproportionately affecting children. A new strain of the virus, known as a clade, poses particular risks to young patients.
Beauty, 17, shares her experiences:
“Cholera, this current outbreak, has really impacted me and my family because my father had to stop work because of the outbreak, and my mother—who is a teacher—also had to stop work for the same issue. It was challenging for us in terms of finances and surviving, but, to God’s grace, we’re surviving. It’s important to have access to clean water because most of the diseases that happen, they happen because people drink contaminated water. So, if you drink clean water… then you can prevent yourself from getting diseases like cholera.”
Global Health Systems Under Pressure
Dr. Revati Phalkey, Global Health and Nutrition Director at Save the Children, emphasized the strain on health systems worldwide. Approximately half of the global population lacks access to essential, quality, and affordable health services, inhibiting universal health coverage. Health systems are under extreme pressure, with most countries experiencing no significant improvements in service coverage since the introduction of the Sustainable Development Goals in 2015.
Dr Phalkey stated:
“We need greater global investments to build strong health systems capable of delivering essential health services, including vaccines and essential medicines, while responding to global health emergencies, such as the new mpox outbreak. It is time for governments and the international community to step up and ensure all children are protected against diseases and have access to adequate health services when needed. Every child has the right to survive and thrive, and it is our collective responsibility to make this happen.”
Impact on Communities
While the resurgence of dengue, cholera, and mpox garnered significant attention, pneumonia remains the leading infectious cause of death among children under five, claiming approximately 500,000 lives annually. However, new estimates from the Global Burden of Disease, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study (GBD) indicate a 28% reduction in deaths from pneumonia from 693,000 in 2019 to 502,000 in 2021, the lowest number ever recorded. This decline is attributed to measures taken during the COVID-19 pandemic to prevent the spread of infection.
Despite this progress, the impact of climate change is expected to reverse these gains, increasing the prevalence of respiratory diseases such as pneumonia, particularly among vulnerable children in areas affected by inequality and poverty.
Vulnerability of Children
Children are disproportionately affected by these diseases due to their weaker immune systems and greater exposure to risk factors. For instance, children are more susceptible to dengue fever, especially outdoors where they are less protected from mosquitoes. They are also at higher risk of severe dehydration and shock if they contract dengue, with potential impacts on their caregivers, including parents.
Mpox, characterized by fever, rash, lesions, severe headaches, and fatigue, poses severe risks to children, including respiratory complications and difficulty swallowing. In severe cases, it can lead to sepsis, a life-threatening condition requiring immediate medical attention.
Cholera disproportionately affects young children, particularly those under five years old, who are at higher risk of severe dehydration and death during outbreaks.
Save the Children’s Response
Recognizing these challenges, Save the Children provides essential public healthcare services for children and their families, including treatment for dengue, cholera, and mpox. Additionally, the organization works with schools and communities to enhance awareness and prevention strategies.
Collaborative Efforts Needed
The resurgence of these diseases highlights the need for concerted global efforts to strengthen health systems, improve access to healthcare, and address the underlying causes such as climate change and conflict. By investing in public health infrastructure and fostering international cooperation, we can better protect children and ensure a healthier future for all.
For more information on how to get involved or support Save the Children’s initiatives, visit their website or donate at SaveTheChildren.org.
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