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

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.

Knowledge on and preventive practices of cholera in Al-Mahweet - Yemen, 2018: a cross-sectional study.

Yemen has experienced one of the world's worst cholera outbreaks in the recent history of cholera records. This study aims to identify knowledge and practices among people of Al-Mahweet governorate toward cholera infection, which can play a critical role in reducing cholera morbidity and shaping the public health response. A cross-sectional study was conducted in an area of high cholera prevalence in 2018 using structured questionnaires. Most community respondents were able to correctly identify the symptoms and risk factors of cholera. While 65% of the respondents in this study knew that proper disposal of human waste is an essential measure of cholera prevention, only 11% of the respondents knew that proper washing of fruits and vegetables lowers the risk of cholera infection. About 62.5% of households did not treat water for safe drinking. Water was scarce in about 30% of households and near-home defecation was observed in about 23%. In conclusion, this study reveals several gaps in different aspects of hygienic and preventive practices including water treatment, waste disposal, and defecation practices. Cholera response should contain comprehensive health promotion interventions to improve the public's knowledge and enhance healthy practices. Stakeholders should support communities with sustainable water and sanitation systems.