WORLD JOURNAL OF ADVANCE
HEALTHCARE RESEARCH

*Nabil Mansur Mustafa, Muna Rahman Oleiwi, Aiser Samir Ramadhan

ABSTRACT

Background: Cholera remains a major public health challenge in many developing countries, including Iraq, where recurrent outbreaks continue to occur due to deficiencies in water, sanitation, and hygiene infrastructure. In 2022, Iraq experienced a large cholera outbreak with epidemiological characteristics different from previous outbreaks. Objectives: To describe the epidemiological, clinical, and laboratory characteristics of laboratory-confirmed cholera cases reported in Iraq during 2022. Methods: A descriptive case-series study was conducted using surveillance data of all laboratory-confirmed cholera cases reported to the Communicable Disease Control Center, Iraqi Ministry of Health, from January 1 to December 31, 2022. Data were extracted from the national cholera line-list database and included demographic characteristics, clinical presentation, laboratory findings, healthcare-seeking behavior, hospitalization, and outcomes. Results: A total of 2,850 laboratory-confirmed cholera cases were reported during the study period. The outbreak started in June and continued until December, representing the first documented summer cholera outbreak in Iraq. Three epidemic waves were observed. The majority of cases occurred among individuals aged 15–45 years, with no significant difference between males and females. Ogawa was the predominant serotype, while only four cases were caused by the Inaba serotype. Watery diarrhea, vomiting, and fever were reported in 42.0%, 49.1%, and 22.3% of cases, respectively. Approximately half of the patients sought healthcare within one to two days of symptom onset. The case fatality rate was 0.7%, remaining below the World Health Organization target of 1%. Conclusions: The 2022 cholera outbreak in Iraq showed unusual seasonal occurrence, prolonged transmission, and multiple epidemic waves. Although mortality remained low, the outbreak highlights persistent challenges related to water quality, sanitation, and environmental health infrastructure. Strengthening surveillance systems, improving access to safe water and sanitation, and enhancing public health awareness are essential to prevent future cholera outbreaks.

[Full Text Article] [Download Certificate]