Ubesie AC, Odimegwu CL, Ezeanolue EE. Cholera outbreaks among children in sub-Saharan Africa.
Curr Opin Pediatr 2024;
36:150-155. [PMID:
38299980 DOI:
10.1097/mop.0000000000001329]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW
We review current knowledge on the burden, impact and prevention of cholera among children who bear the brunt of cholera outbreaks in sub-Saharan Africa.
RECENT FINDINGS
Several studies have shown that recent outbreaks of cholera among African children are related to minimal progress in basic sanitation and infrastructural development. Poor hygiene practices such as open defecation and indiscriminate disposal of feces are still common in many parts of Africa.
SUMMARY
Cholera case fatality rates in sub-Saharan Africa remain unacceptably high. Children are disproportionately affected and bear the brunt of the disease. Controlling outbreaks of cholera among African children will require a synchronous implementation of the five levels of disease prevention.
Collapse