UN Warns of Cholera Outbreak and Malnutrition in Yemen as Drought Season Approaches

The United Nations relief coordinator has sounded the alarm over a cholera outbreak and rising malnutrition in Yemen as the war-torn country enters its "drought" season. Since March, over 11,000 cholera cases and 75 deaths have been reported in areas controlled by the Houthi rebels, according to UN officials.

Yemen is currently experiencing its worst cholera outbreak in recent history, with more than 8,700 cases recorded since March 14, particularly in the northern governorates. The situation is exacerbated by critical levels of malnutrition, a dysfunctional health system, and poor water quality, creating a breeding ground for the waterborne disease.

Why this matters: The humanitarian crisis in Yemen, compounded by the ongoing conflict and the impending drought season, threatens to further destabilize the country and cause widespread suffering among its population. The international community must take urgent action to address the dire situation and prevent further loss of life.

Malnutrition and cholera create a vicious cycle, as malnutrition reduces immunity and cholera causes water and nutrient loss, reducing appetite and further compromising immunity. Action Against Hunger and its partners are implementing an emergency response project in five vulnerable governorates to prevent the transmission of cholera and provide support to health centers.

However, the humanitarian response in Yemen is severely underfunded, with a 40% drop in funding from major donors compared to the previous year. This has forced the World Food Programme to pause its General Food Assistance program, impacting 9.5 million food-insecure people in northern Yemen and leading to a deterioration in the food security situation.

The UN relief coordinator emphasized the urgent need for action, stating, "The situation in Yemen is dire, and we must act now to prevent further suffering and loss of life. The international community must come together to support the Yemeni people and address the root causes of this crisis." The UN continues to call for an end to the conflict and increased funding for humanitarian assistance to alleviate the suffering of the Yemeni population.

Key Takeaways

• Cholera outbreak and malnutrition crisis in Yemen amid drought season
• Over 11,000 cholera cases and 75 deaths reported in Houthi-controlled areas
• Humanitarian crisis exacerbated by conflict, dysfunctional health system, and poor water quality
• Humanitarian response severely underfunded, leading to reduced food assistance
• UN calls for urgent action to address the crisis and prevent further suffering