11 killed by cholera outbreak in Buhodle

Eleven people died while 32 others have been admitted to various hospitals following a cholera outbreak in Buhoodle town of Somalia’s northern region, Togdher.

Doctor Ali Hukun Yussuf who operates in Buhodle said lack of clean water for consumption has increased the spread of the killer disease.

Yussuf noted that their work has been affected by insufficient medicine.

He said NGOs and other health practitioners have been invited to help fight the disease.

“This disease was first reported four days ago in the outskirt of the town and rapidly spread across the town,’ said Yussuf.

He pointed out that the number was likely to rise because more patients with cholera symptoms were being admitted.

Cholera, a highly contagious intestinal infection, is transmitted by water soiled by human waste. The disease leads to diarrhoea, dehydration and death if untreated.

Meanwhile, Somalia is facing its worst drought in decades.

The humanitarian crisis has hit many regions in Southern, Central and Northern Somalia with many people needing emergency aid.