As of August 8, Chad had registered 320 cholera cases and 15 deaths. This data comes from the latest situation report covering August 6 to 8. Over a 72-hour period, 52 additional contaminations were reported. The national case fatality rate has now reached 4.7%, a figure considerably higher than the 1% benchmark typically indicating effective disease management. The outbreak currently impacts three provinces: Hadjer-Lamis, Lac, and the city of N’Djamena. In total, cases have been reported across 58 villages and neighborhoods within twelve active health zones.

Hadjer-Lamis province continues to report the highest number of patients. Specifically, the Karal district accounts for 168 cases and five deaths, resulting in a 3% fatality rate. The situation in N’Djamena, however, is distinct. While the capital has fewer overall contaminations, totaling 92, it has tragically recorded eight patient deaths. Its fatality rate stands at 8.7%, making it the highest among all currently affected regions. In Lac province, primarily around the Kangalom district, the toll is 60 cases and two deaths, with a fatality rate of 3.3%. Laboratory analyses further confirm the active circulation of the disease, with 27 out of 48 cultures testing positive, representing 56% of samples analyzed.

Young patients particularly affected

Health data reveals another striking characteristic of this outbreak: the median age of those infected is a mere 10 years. Furthermore, a significant majority of patients arrive for treatment in a critical state requiring immediate intervention. Reports indicate that 84% present with moderate or severe dehydration, a direct and dangerous complication associated with the most severe forms of cholera. Nationally, the attack rate is estimated at 13.3 cases per 100,000 inhabitants.

The public health response largely centers on a vaccination campaign deployed in high-risk areas. By August 8, 143,367 individuals had been vaccinated, achieving 89.1% of the targeted population. However, health teams face numerous challenges that facilitate transmission. These include inadequate access to safe drinking water, substandard sanitation infrastructure, prevalent open defecation, high population density in certain localities, and frequent population movements. In Lac province, communication difficulties further complicate public awareness efforts, patient monitoring, and the coordination of vital health interventions.

The Ministry of Health strongly advises frequent handwashing with clean water and soap, consuming potable or previously boiled water, and seeking immediate medical attention for any sudden onset of diarrhea. Cholera, an acute intestinal infection, is primarily transmitted through the ingestion of contaminated water or food. Its severe manifestations lead to rapid dehydration, which can be fatal if not treated promptly.