WHO Calls for Increased Cholera Vaccine Production Amid Global Shortage
Global Cholera Situation
The UN health agency reported 307,433 cases of cholera and 2,326 deaths in 26 countries up to July 28.
Cholera Vaccine Shortage
WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus highlighted a “critical shortage” of cholera vaccines, citing a significant gap between demand and supply.
Between January 2023 and May 2024, 105 million doses were requested by 18 countries, but only 55 million doses were produced, Tedros added.
Global Response
Tedros urged “further investment in scaling up vaccine production” and called on all countries to spend more on “water and sanitation, and emergency preparedness to prevent further outbreaks.”
Regional Breakdown
The eastern Mediterranean region, Africa, and southeast Asia have recorded the highest numbers of cases, said the WHO, which considers the global risk from cholera to be “very high” due to the growing number of cases and the shortage of vaccines.
History of Cholera
The WHO says that after decades of progress against cholera, cases have been on the rise again since 2021, including in countries that had not seen the disease in years.
Disease Characteristics
The disease, which causes severe diarrhoea, vomiting, and muscle cramps, generally arises from eating or drinking food or water that is contaminated with the bacterium, according to the WHO.
Important Notes
The cases registered so far should be interpreted cautiously due to potential reporting delays, the WHO said.
Conclusion
The WHO’s call for increased cholera vaccine production highlights the urgent need to address the global shortage and prevent further outbreaks. The organization’s recommendations for scaling up vaccine production and investing in water and sanitation infrastructure are crucial steps towards controlling the spread of the disease.
FAQs
Q: What is the current global situation with cholera?
A: As of July 28, 307,433 cases of cholera and 2,326 deaths have been reported in 26 countries.
Q: What is the cause of the cholera vaccine shortage?
A: The shortage is due to a significant gap between demand and supply, with 105 million doses requested by 18 countries but only 55 million doses produced between January 2023 and May 2024.
Q: What is the WHO’s response to the shortage?
A: The WHO is urging further investment in scaling up vaccine production and calling on all countries to spend more on water and sanitation, and emergency preparedness to prevent further outbreaks.