As of Thursday, health officials in Chad confirmed 13 fatalities and 239 reported cholera cases since the outbreak began in July.

The epidemic has spread across two regions: Hadjer Lamis in the north and N’Djamena, the nation’s capital. Authorities declared the outbreak on July 24, following initial fatalities reported on June 13.

A mass vaccination drive is underway, with 50,799 individuals already inoculated. Health authorities continue to monitor the situation closely as they combat the spread of the disease.

Cholera, an acute diarrheal infection, stems from consuming contaminated food or water. While treatable through rehydration or antibiotics in severe cases, it can prove fatal within hours without intervention.

Though advanced wastewater treatment has nearly eradicated cholera in developed nations, Chad faces persistent challenges, particularly limited access to clean drinking water and sanitation infrastructure, as noted by health officials.