Cholera surveillance has been strengthened in Ukraine, – Ministry of Health
3 June 19:53
In June, Ukraine launched enhanced epidemiological surveillance of cholera. The Ministry of Health reports that patients with severe forms of acute intestinal infections will be tested for the presence of the cholera pathogen Vibrio cholerae, "Komersant Ukrainian" reports.
“Every severe case of acute intestinal infection must undergo a laboratory test. Disease control centers in all regions are ready to respond quickly,” said Chief State Sanitary Doctor Igor Kuzin.
Each region has already identified medical facilities for hospitalization of patients with suspected cholera. They have a stock of antibiotics, rehydration solutions and disinfectants.
The laboratories at the regional CDCs are equipped with equipment and reagents for bacteriological and PCR diagnostics.
Specialists also undergo regular training on diagnostics and biosafety.
In addition to medical examinations, the CDC conducts environmental monitoring – in particular, it examines water samples, including sea, freshwater and wastewater.
Statistics for 2024:
- more than 13 thousand patients with intestinal infections were examined – no cases of cholera were detected;
- almost 10 thousand water samples were tested – also without detection of the pathogen.
The Ministry of Health emphasizes that although the risk of infection in Ukraine remains low, given the active outbreaks of cholera in the world – particularly in Africa, Asia and the Middle East – the early warning system should take into account possible cross-border threats.
According to the European Center for Disease Control (ECDC), from January to May 2025, more than 111 thousand cases of cholera were reported worldwide, of which more than 1,500 were fatal.
Cholera is a dangerous diarrheal infection that is transmitted by the fecal-oral route, mainly through contaminated water or food. In severe cases, it can cause rapid dehydration and death without proper treatment.
