Cholera in Yemen (Update 6)
25 Jul 2017
The World Health Organisation reports 390,865 suspected cholera cases and1864 deaths in Yemen from 27 April to 15 July 2017. During week ending 23 July 2017, a total of 35 052 suspected cholera cases and 53 deaths were reported. 21 out of 23 governorates and 295 out of 333 districts have reported suspected cases since 27 April. The five most affected governorates are Amanat Al Asimah, Al Hudaydah, Hajjah, Amran and Ibb.
Advice to Travellers
Prevention is focused on ensuring safe water and food, particularly in countries where cholera is more common or where outbreaks occur (see individual country record). Food and drink to be wary of include untreated water, ice, shellfish, salads, unwashed fruit and vegetables.
Good personal hygiene is essential. Individuals should ensure that they wash their hands frequently, prior to eating and after visiting the bathroom.
A vaccine is available to protect against cholera but as the risk to most travellers is very low, it is only recommended in the following circumstances:
- Volunteers/aid workers/medical personnel in disaster relief situations where cholera outbreaks likely.
- Those travelling to work in slums/refugee camps, areas affected by natural disasters, or countries experiencing cholera outbreaks and where care with food and water is difficult or not possible.
For further information see Cholera