Factors associated with the cholera outbreak in Al-Mahweet-Yemen: Analytic Study

Abstract

Introduction: The emergence of cholera in 2016 in Yemen, worsened the morbidity and mortality of diarrheal diseases, particularly among children under five. Multiple outbreaks in Yemen are triggered by years of conflict and the collapse of basic infrastructure including water supply and sanitation systems. This study aims to assess factors associated with the cholera outbreak, in a cholera-prone region, in Al-Mahweet, Yemen.

Methodology: We conducted a multivariate analysis of the data collected through a household survey of 384 households in Al-Mahweet, Yemen.

Results: Families with children under five years, large households, and those living in Al Mahweet district were associated with a higher incidence of cholera. Water treatment by boiling, filtering, and chlorination as a protective practice against cholera showed a borderline significance, while other WASH practices including regular hand washing, open defection, safe water source, and improved sanitation facilities were statistically insignificant. Community awareness of cholera transmission and prevention measures showed no association with cholera incidence.

Conclusions: Findings suggest that living conditions, including large households and lack of access to treated water, increase the risk of cholera. Interventions to increase access to treated water and improve the hygienic conditions of large households are of central importance. Affected communities must receive effective educational campaigns that are adjusted to change hygienic practices and improve knowledge of cholera transmission and protection measures.