Sudan’s health authorities reported a rise in dengue fever and hepatitis cases across multiple states on Wednesday, as the country’s healthcare system continues to face severe strain amid ongoing conflict.
According to the Ministry of Health’s Emergency Operations Centre, 662 cases of dengue fever were recorded over the past week across seven states, including Khartoum, Gezira and Gedaref.
In addition, 48 hepatitis cases were confirmed in Gezira, Gedaref and White Nile states, while 103 measles cases were reported in North Kordofan, White Nile, West Kordofan and Northern states.
The ministry noted a decline in malaria cases across 13 states compared with the previous week. However, significant challenges persist, including shortages of essential medicines—particularly malaria drugs—in some regions, due to disrupted supply chains.
The health system has been heavily affected by the war, which has led to road closures and hindered the distribution of medical supplies, contributing to a deterioration in healthcare delivery.
To address the situation, authorities have intensified health promotion efforts, including 29,000 home visits and awareness campaigns such as “Dry Up the Water, Stop the Fever” in River Nile state. Polio awareness initiatives are also underway in North Kordofan and parts of White Nile.
The National Public Health Laboratory, with support from the World Health Organization, has launched an epidemiological response to meningitis, deploying mobile laboratories in Khartoum, Gezira and Gedaref to improve rapid diagnostics and field response.
Health Ministry Undersecretary Ali Babiker has directed further assessments of the situation in southern Blue Nile and called for preparations for a large-scale coordination meeting ahead of the anticipated return of displaced populations to Khartoum.
