The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported a sharp increase in cholera cases in Yemen, with over 18,000 suspected infections recorded since the beginning of 2025.

According to WHO’s latest global epidemiological update, 18,286 cases of suspected cholera and acute watery diarrhea (AWD) have been documented in Yemen, including 10 fatalities, between January 1 and May 25.

The report highlights a notable surge in cases during May, with 5,369 new infections, marking an increase of 297 cases compared to April, which saw 1,352 cases and one death.

WHO ranks Yemen as the fifth most affected country globally in terms of cholera outbreaks, following Sudan, Afghanistan, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Angola. Additionally, Yemen has the second-highest cholera infection rate in the Eastern Mediterranean region, trailing only Afghanistan.

Health officials warn that poor sanitation, limited access to clean water, and inadequate healthcare infrastructure continue to fuel the outbreak, urging international donors to step up support to contain the disease and prevent further fatalities