In the first six weeks of 2026, cholera cases in Southern Africa have surged more than sevenfold compared with the same period in 2025, driven by severe flooding from cyclones, damaged infrastructure, and inadequate water and sanitation among displaced populations, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Between 1 January and 15 February 2026, five Southern African countries reported 4,320 cases and 56 deaths, up from 586 cases and 11 deaths in 2025, while other parts of the continent saw a decline in cholera incidence.
Currently, 13 African countries are experiencing cholera outbreaks, with Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe reporting cases in Southern Africa. Since 2023, the region has become a major hotspot for cholera, particularly following the 2023–2024 cyclone season. Mozambique alone accounts for 90% of the region’s cases in 2026, with floods affecting over 700,000 people.
Southern Africa is in the midst of an active cyclone season, which typically lasts from January to April, and above-average rainfall continues in vulnerable areas. WHO has identified 27 high-risk zones across the five affected countries, where poor water, sanitation, and hygiene infrastructure, combined with recurrent cholera outbreaks, increase community vulnerability.
Dr. Marie Roseline Darnycka Belizaire, Emergencies Director at WHO’s Regional Office for Africa, emphasized that the rise in cholera highlights the growing public health risks linked to climate shocks. WHO is working with national authorities to provide emergency assistance while strengthening health system preparedness and resilience to protect communities from climate-driven health threats.
Projections indicate that Southern Africa could see an additional 12,000 to 22,000 cholera cases between March and August 2026 under likely scenarios. Key drivers of these outbreaks include tropical cyclones, flooding across multiple countries, conflict and population displacement, and insufficient urban water supply systems.
WHO and partners are supporting emergency responses by delivering cholera and other essential health supplies, enhancing disease surveillance, and coordinating health interventions. Rapid implementation of public health measures, including vaccination, water and sanitation improvements, and early treatment, is critical. Most cholera cases can be managed with oral rehydration solutions, while severe cases require intravenous fluids, ORS, and antibiotics.
Cholera remains a global public health threat, reflecting underlying inequities and gaps in social and economic development. Ensuring access to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene is fundamental to preventing cholera and other waterborne diseases, highlighting the urgent need for long-term infrastructure and resilience investments in the region.
