South Sudan is dealing with its longest and deadliest cholera outbreak since independence, according to a press release. The outbreak began in September 2024 and has already led to more than 80,000 cases and 1,400 deaths. The crisis is getting worse as the country faces violence, floods, and hunger.
Government leaders, United Nations (UN) agencies, and local groups met this week to talk about what they call an “alarming escalation.” This is not just a health problem—floods, displacement, and a lack of clean water are making things harder. The government says it will let aid groups reach all affected areas and is working with partners to move supplies, fix water systems, and run vaccination drives.
The next two months matter. The rainy season is about to peak, and heavy floods could make it much harder to control cholera. Floods often cut off clean water and block aid deliveries. Hotter global temperatures are making these floods worse. Millions more people could be at risk if cholera spreads to new areas.
Cholera spreads through dirty water or food, but it can be stopped with good hygiene, safe water, and vaccines. Most cases are mild and can be treated with oral rehydration salts, but the disease can turn deadly fast if not treated quickly. People can also spread cholera for up to ten days, even if they feel fine.
South Sudan’s health and water systems are already stretched thin by conflict and displacement. The UN and its partners are rushing to get emergency supplies to the hardest-hit areas, but only $368 million of the $1.69 billion needed has been raised so far. Leaders say cholera response and flood planning must be urgent national priorities, warning that time is running out to stop the outbreak from getting worse.
