Geneva, 18 October 2024 (dpa/MIA) - The World Health Organization (WHO) is alarmed by the first confirmed case of cholera in Lebanon since the current crisis broke out and said it is working urgently to prevent a larger outbreak.

Lebanese health authorities confirmed the first cholera case this week amidst the growing conflict between the Iran-backed Hezbollah militia in Lebanon and Israel.

Cholera is a diarrhoeal disease that spreads through water contamination, such as when water supplies are infected with faeces. The risk of an outbreak always exists when many people have to live together under insufficiently hygienic conditions.

In Lebanon, more than 1 million people have been displaced due to Israeli attacks in its fight against Hezbollah. Many are living in cramped conditions in emergency shelters or in the open air and do not have access to clean water.

Disease poses a life-threatening risk to children

Cholera broke out in Lebanon for the first time in over 30 years in October 2022. More than 8,000 suspected cases were recorded, and 23 people died before the outbreak ended in June 2023. The disease is particularly life-threatening for small children.

Currently, people are being tested and water samples are being examined. In collaboration with partner organizations, the WHO is attempting to provide more clean drinking water and to improve sewage disposal. Additionally, medical supplies have already been brought into the country to treat those infected with cholera.

A vaccination campaign against cholera had been underway since the beginning of August, but was interrupted due to the escalation of fighting between Hezbollah and Israel.