WHO: Global cholera cases surpass half million in 2025

The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported a sharp rise in cholera infections worldwide, with more than 518,000 cases and 6,508 deaths recorded between January 1 and September 28, 2025.

The number of fatalities has already surpassed the total deaths reported in 2024, when 6,028 people died from the disease, Caliber.Az reports per Russian media. 

According to the WHO’s latest situation report, 32 countries across five regions have been affected by cholera outbreaks this year. The organisation warned that ongoing conflicts, large-scale population displacements, natural disasters and the impacts of climate change have significantly worsened conditions, particularly in rural and flood-affected areas.

These factors, coupled with fragile infrastructure and limited access to healthcare, have delayed treatment and contributed to the rise in cases.

In September 2025, a total of 45,787 new cases of cholera and acute watery diarrhoea were reported across 21 countries, territories and areas — a 27% decrease compared to August. During the same period, 601 deaths were recorded, representing a 37% drop from the previous month.

However, WHO cautioned that data remain incomplete, as reporting delays persist in countries experiencing instability and extreme weather conditions.

The report highlighted that Afghanistan, Yemen, South Sudan, Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Angola and Pakistan have been among the hardest-hit nations in 2025.

The highest number of deaths was reported in the DRC (1,713), followed by Sudan (1,653), South Sudan (1,249), Angola (809), Nigeria (244) and Yemen (225).

Cholera, a severe diarrhoeal disease caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae, spreads primarily through contaminated food and water. Without prompt treatment, it can cause rapid dehydration and death within hours.

By Sabina Mammadli