A widespread outbreak of cholera in Houthi-controlled areas in Hodeidah

Identical local and medical sources revealed a widespread spread of the cholera epidemic in Houthi-controlled areas in Hodeidah Governorate (western Yemen).

The sources told "Yemen Shabab Net" that hospitals in the city of Hodeidah and its countryside, which are under the control of the Houthi militia, are crowded with patients from acute watery diarrhea and cholera, with a significant increase in deaths related to the disease.

The sources explained that hospitals in areas under the control of the Houthi militia in the governorate receive hundreds of patients suffering from the cholera epidemic every week, amid the militia’s neglect and failure to take any measures to control the epidemic, which has become a threat to the lives of the population.

The sources indicated that during the past week, more than 20 deaths related to the disease were recorded, the majority of whom were children, noting that the most deaths were recorded in the Bajil District (East).

Hodeidah is one of the most Yemeni governorates witnessing an outbreak of epidemics and infectious diseases, as a result of the collapse of the health system and the Houthis’ seizure of medical aid provided by international organizations and using it for military purposes, or for the personal interests of influential leaders within the militia.

For months, the country has been witnessing a new outbreak of cholera, most of it in Houthi-controlled areas, and UN estimates indicate that more than a quarter of a million cases of cholera may be recorded across the country by next September.

Cholera is an infectious disease caused by the waterborne bacteria Vibrio cholerae. It spreads rapidly through the population, primarily through the consumption of contaminated water or food. The disease manifests as uncontrollable diarrhea, which, if left untreated, can lead to severe dehydration or even death.