Cholera Crisis Looms: IRC Ramps Up Medical Aid in Northeastern Syria

September 26, 2024 — AMMAN, Jordan, September 26, 2024 – Acute watery diarrhea is on the rise in northeastern Syria, with more than 170 suspected cases of cholera reported in Al Hasakeh, Ar Raqqa and Deir ez Zor governorates. Recent researchAccording to the report, approximately 70% of communities in the Northeast region do not have access to water, including potable water, due to security concerns, high costs or lack of access to mains water. Additionally, 80% of communities lack access to health services, due to high costs, lack of transportation or the burden of medical bills. The severe weakness of local health systems makes it difficult to even detect an increase in cholera cases, complicating response efforts. The risk of cholera spreading further increases as communities struggle with poor water and sanitation conditions and overburdened health systems. The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is closely monitoring this situation and is deeply concerned about the potential impact on vulnerable groups, including refugee families and people in marginalized areas.

International Rescue Committee Syria representative, Tanya Evans, said:

“We are seeing a worrying increase in suspected cholera cases in northeast Syria. Families already suffering greatly from the conflict are now at risk of cholera, especially children and the elderly. Limited access to clean water, inadequate sanitation facilities and overcrowding are further increasing the risk of cholera spread.

“In September 2022, northern Syria experienced its first outbreak of cholera in a decade, putting additional strain on an already overburdened and fragile health system. The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies has begun to respond to the increasing number of suspected cholera cases, but the scale of the response is overwhelming. More support is needed to provide essential medical supplies and scale up awareness campaigns in communities, as well as to strengthen the capacity of our staff. The health system in the region is extremely fragile, and strengthening it is essential to reduce the impact of this health crisis.

“We urge the international community to prioritize robust health support, ensuring access to necessary health services and stepping up efforts to provide safe water and sanitation facilities.

The International Rescue Committee is responding to the current health crisis by procuring essential medicines and supplies, employing community health workers to conduct cholera prevention campaigns, and providing cholera management training to local health workers. These efforts aim to curb the spread of the disease and protect vulnerable communities from further harm.