Ethiopia is facing a deadly dual health crisis as outbreaks of malaria and cholera have claimed at least 59 lives in early 2025, according to a recent World Health Organization (WHO) bulletin.

The Ethiopia Health Cluster Bulletin for February reported a staggering 909,146 malaria cases across 1,173 districts, resulting in 34 deaths, while a cholera outbreak has led to 857 confirmed cases and 25 fatalities, primarily in the Gambella and Amhara regions.

The cholera outbreak, ongoing in 16 districts, has a case fatality rate of 2.92 percent and is being worsened by critical shortages of clean water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) supplies. These deficits are hampering efforts to contain the disease in both healthcare facilities and communities, the WHO noted. Meanwhile, the malaria surge continues to strain the nation’s health system.

Compounding the crisis, ongoing conflicts in multiple regions are obstructing humanitarian access, leaving thousands in remote areas without essential medical care. Recent earthquakes have further intensified the situation, increasing the demand for emergency medical and logistical support.

The cholera outbreak, which first emerged in August 2022, has prompted a robust response from Ethiopian health authorities and partners like WHO. A nationwide oral cholera vaccination campaign has already reached over 10 million people, but officials stress that more action is needed. Without sustained improvements in water, sanitation, and healthcare access, experts warn that both outbreaks could escalate, endangering more lives across the East African nation. (ILKHA)