World Health Organization Announces Global Trends in Cholera, Meningitis, and Plague
The World Health Organization announced that despite a decline in reported cases, global cholera deaths increased by 30 percent in 2025, reaching the highest annual count since 1999.
According to World Health Organization data, global cholera deaths increased by 30 percent in 2025 despite a decrease in cases, reaching their highest level since 1999. In the same report, the organization also shared global trends regarding bacterial meningitis and plague diseases.
Increase in Cholera Cases and Deaths
A total of 451,499 cholera cases and 7,870 deaths were reported to the World Health Organization by 47 countries in 2025. These figures constitute the highest annual number of cholera deaths reported since 1999.
Most Affected Countries and Regions
Angola, Bangladesh, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Nigeria, South Sudan, Sudan, and Yemen accounted for approximately 90 percent of all globally reported cholera cases and deaths. The WHO African Region recorded a 34 percent increase in cases and a 58 percent increase in deaths compared to 2024.
Expert Opinion and Necessary Measures
Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu, Executive Director of the WHO Health Emergencies Programme, stated that the increase in cholera deaths serves as a reminder of the challenges posed by a preventable disease, drawing attention to the importance of investments in safe water, sanitation, and hygiene.
Transmission Route of Cholera
Cholera is an acute diarrheal disease caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae and is spread through food and water contaminated with feces. Severe dehydration can be fatal if not treated promptly.
Developments in Vaccine Production and Supply
Global production of oral cholera vaccines more than doubled between 2022 and 2025, rising from 30 million to nearly 80 million doses annually. Vaccine availability was significantly improved as a result.
Status of Meningitis and Plague Diseases
Twenty-four countries in the African meningitis belt reported 21,526 suspected cases and 971 deaths in 2025. Meanwhile, between 2019 and 2025, 10 countries reported suspected plague cases to the World Health Organization.