Lebanon has recorded its first cholera case since 1993, as announced by Minister of Health in the caretaker government, Firas Abiad. This is not surprising following the widespread outbreak of the disease in Syria since last month, where at least 39 deaths have been reported. What is the situation in Lebanon? Is there cause for concern?
Dr. Alisar Raddi, program officer at the World Health Organization in Lebanon, indicates that "the organization has been closely monitoring the situation with the Ministry of Health, and cases of cholera were expected, as the disease spreads quickly through water and feces." She explains in an interview with MTV that "Lebanon suffers from a problem with water and waste disposal, with heightened risks in certain areas where residents frequently visit Syria and welcome returnees from there," noting that "cholera is rampant in all provinces there, making its spread in Lebanon anticipated."
Following the announcement of a confirmed cholera case in Halba, Dr. Raddi reveals that there are two infection cases, one belonging to a Syrian national and the other involving the nurse who attended to him in the hospital," predicting that more cases will be reported in the coming days.
The situation is not as bleak as some might think, as the WHO official reassures that "the positive aspect is that the Ministry of Health has a decent level of readiness, and the necessary medications and vaccines are available. Eight hospitals have been designated as reference centers." She adds, "We, as the United Nations and specifically as a health organization, along with NGOs, are striving to equip these hospitals as quickly as possible."
How can this situation be confronted? Dr. Raddi responds that "there is a personal responsibility for each individual to pay close attention and avoid eating food in untrustworthy places, while also emphasizing the importance of handwashing, maintaining personal hygiene, and ensuring the cleanliness of the water used."
There is also a responsibility on the state, "which must monitor and control the water distribution network across all Lebanese territories, putting in additional effort, at least during this period, to contain the epidemic swiftly," according to the official. She adds, "There are major issues regarding water in Lebanon, especially as it is linked to electricity.” She also points out the need for proper sewage collection centers, indicating that they should not leak into nature, the sea, or rivers... as all these carry the cholera germ and transmit it into homes!"
Furthermore, Dr. Raddi confirms "that we, as the United Nations and the World Health Organization, are ready to support the Lebanese state, and this support has started some time ago." She stresses that "Lebanon has all the components to contain the cholera epidemic and prevent its significant spread if good coordination occurs among the relevant parties, unlike what is happening in Syria and other countries like Iraq and Pakistan, where the primary cause of cholera spread is limited capacity for sustained coordination."
So, will Lebanon succeed in this test? The answer depends on the weeks and months to come.
