Chad Battles Cholera Outbreak Amidst Refugee Crisis
DOUGUI REFUGEE CAMP, CHAD – November 21, 2025 – A surge in cholera cases is threatening vulnerable populations in Chad, particularly within refugee camps like Dougui, already strained by ongoing regional instability. Health officials are racing to contain the outbreak, reporting a meaningful increase in infections linked to contaminated water sources adn inadequate sanitation.
the escalating health crisis arrives as Chad grapples with a growing influx of refugees fleeing conflict in neighboring countries, placing immense pressure on already limited resources. The outbreak disproportionately impacts displaced communities, where overcrowding and poor living conditions facilitate the rapid spread of the waterborne disease. Without swift intervention, the situation risks spiraling into a major public health emergency, possibly affecting thousands of individuals and destabilizing the region.
Cholera, a highly contagious infection caused by bacteria in contaminated water or food, manifests with symptoms including severe diarrhea and dehydration. The current outbreak began gaining momentum in late October 2025, with cases initially concentrated in the eastern regions of Chad before spreading to refugee camps. the Dougui camp, housing refugees from the Central African Republic and Sudan, has become a focal point of concern.
“We are seeing a worrying rise in cases, particularly among children and the elderly,” stated a representative from the Chad Ministry of Public health. “The combination of the rainy season,which contaminates water supplies,and the overcrowded conditions in the camps creates a perfect storm for cholera to thrive.”
International organizations, including the World health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF, are collaborating with the Chadian government to implement emergency response measures. These efforts include providing access to clean water, distributing hygiene kits, establishing cholera treatment centers, and conducting vaccination campaigns. A recent WHO report highlighted the critical need for increased funding and logistical support to effectively combat the outbreak.
The long-term solution requires sustained investment in Chad’s water and sanitation infrastructure, alongside improved healthcare access for both refugees and host communities. Addressing the root causes of vulnerability – poverty, displacement, and inadequate public health systems – is crucial to preventing future outbreaks and building resilience against infectious diseases.The current response aims to control the immediate crisis, but a extensive strategy is essential to safeguard public health in Chad for years to come.
