The Ministry of Health has raised its level of readiness and has tightened precautionary measures at its borders with Sudan as part of the country’s efforts to combat the transfer of cholera from the neighbouring country, according to Assistant Minister of Health and Population Hossam Abdel-Ghaffar.

The Egyptian response came after an announcement by the Sudanese Ministry of Health of a cholera epidemic amid heavy rainfall in Sudan for the past several weeks. The states of Kassala and Qadaref in eastern Sudan are reportedly the most affected by the epidemic. According to the World Health Organisation, 11,327 cholera cases including 316 deaths have been reported in Sudan.

While Abdel-Ghaffar confirmed Egypt is free of cholera, the ministry’s Preventive Medicine Sector has been tightening its precautionary measures to stop the disease from entering the country.

A cholera outbreak in Sudan started on 12 August, raising the level of Egypt’s readiness at land entry points connected to Sudan, particularly at the Arqin and Qastal land ports, with all incoming travellers being screened. This is in addition to daily monitoring of air entry points. Abdel-Ghaffar added that Egypt has a strong surveillance system “that has been tested in many previous health situations and has proven its effectiveness and distinction”.

Amr Qandil, head of the Preventive Medicine Sector in the Ministry of Health and Population, pointed out that contaminated drinking water and food are the primary cause of cholera, with symptoms including severe diarrhea and dehydration, which can be fatal if not treated immediately.

“Medical teams equipped with diagnostic tools have been stationed at locations to promptly identify any suspected cases of cholera. These teams are trained to recognise symptoms, conduct rapid tests, and isolate suspected cases to prevent the disease from entering the country,” Qandil said.

According to Qandil, the government has launched public awareness campaignsfocusing on educating the public on cholera symptoms, transmission methods, and the importance of personal hygiene. Information is being disseminated through various media outlets, including television, radio, social media, and printed materials distributed in public.

In anticipation of any potential cholera cases, the ministry has boosted its healthcare infrastructure to handle possible outbreaks. “Hospitals, particularly those near the borders and in areas with a high influx of travellers, have been equipped with additional medical supplies, including intravenous fluids, antibiotics, and rehydration salts. Healthcare professionals across the country have undergone refresher training on cholera management, ensuring they are prepared to provide prompt and effective treatment,” Qandil said.

Egypt is also coordinating closely with the WHO to monitor the situation in Sudan and receive updates on the outbreak. The collaboration allows Egypt to stay informed over the latest developments and best practices in cholera prevention and control. The country is also prepared to receive technical assistance and additional resources if needed.

 Abdel-Ghaffar noted that the ministry is cooperating with the Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation to monitor water quality in regions close to the Sudanese border and other vulnerable areas.

* A version of this article appears in print in the 5 September, 2024 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly