Clinical presentation and outcome of cholera in a regional hospital in Khartoum State, Sudan

Cholera remains a significant global health concern, especially in areas with limited access to safe drinking water, poor sanitation, inadequate hygiene practices, and fragile health infrastructure. The etiology is Vibrio cholerae, a bacterium with multiple serotypes of varying degrees of pathogenicity. It typically presents as acute, severe watery diarrhea leading to dehydration. Cholera is endemic in several African countries, including Sudan. This study aimed to describe the clinical features and outcomes of cholera in patients admitted to a hospital in Khartoum, Sudan. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted between January 1 and June 30, 2025, at a regional hospital in Khartoum State. Data were obtained through structured interviews and medical record reviews, covering demographic and clinical characteristics, complications, management, and outcomes. A total of 211 patients, aged from 6 to 71 years, were enrolled. Females made up 52.1% of the group. Most patients (75.8%) came from rural areas, and 65.9% were of low socio economic status. None had received a cholera vaccination. The main symptoms at presentation were diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal cramps. Major complications included severe dehydration, hypokalemia, hypoglycemia, and acute kidney injury. Overall, 173 patients (82%) recovered and were discharged, whereas 38 patients (18%) died during hospitalization. Cholera continues to pose a substantial threat to public health in Sudan. Strengthening preventive measures, such as improving safe water supply, promoting sanitation and hygiene practices, and implementing mass vaccination during outbreaks, is essential to reducing disease burden and preventing future epidemics.