Sana’a – Yemen is facing a renewed and alarming surge in cholera infections, with over 18,000 suspected cases reported since the beginning of 2025, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). 

The outbreak, which includes acute watery diarrhea (AWD), has intensified in recent months, threatening to overwhelm the country’s already fragile healthcare infrastructure.

Health officials warn that the resurgence of cholera—a preventable waterborne disease—is being fueled by poor sanitation, lack of clean water, and widespread malnutrition. Nearly half of Yemen’s medical facilities are either non-functional or only partially operational due to years of conflict and economic collapse.

The crisis is compounded by severe funding shortages. As of mid-2025, only 14% of health sector needs and just over 7% of water and sanitation requirements have been met, forcing the closure of dozens of treatment centers and leaving millions without access to basic care.

Dr. Amr Saleh, Senior Emergency Health Officer at the International Rescue Committee (IRC), described the situation as a “ticking time bomb,” emphasizing the urgent need for international support to prevent a repeat of the catastrophic 2017–2020 epidemic.

The WHO has called for immediate and coordinated action, including expanded vaccination campaigns, restoration of health services, and improved access to clean water.

Yemen currently bears the highest global burden of cholera, accounting for 35% of worldwide cases and 18% of related deaths as of December 2024. Without decisive intervention, the country risks plunging deeper into a preventable humanitarian disaster.