KRG Health Minister confirms no cholera cases in Sharazur amid diarrhea outbreak

During a press conference on Saturday, Barzanji reported that health teams had implemented 12 rapid response measures to trace the source of the outbreak.

Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) Health Minister Saman Barzanji speaking at the press conference, Nov. 9, 2024. (Photo: Kurdistan24)
Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) Health Minister Saman Barzanji speaking at the press conference, Nov. 9, 2024. (Photo: Kurdistan24)

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) Health Minister Saman Barzanji assured residents that the recent outbreak of diarrhea and vomiting in Sulaimani's Sharazur district is not cholera, identifying instead a bacterial cause.

During a press conference on Saturday, Barzanji reported that health teams had implemented 12 rapid response measures to trace the source of the outbreak. "None of the individuals affected in Sharazur tested positive for cholera," he confirmed, underscoring the ministry's proactive steps to contain the spread and identify the bacterial source.

The number of cases in the district has risen to approximately 2,500, predominantly affecting children, though there have been no life-threatening cases, according to Kurdistan24. Local pediatrician Dr. Ali explained that patients typically present with diarrhea, vomiting, and fever, with some experiencing dehydration. "Many patients are treated and discharged within six hours," he said, adding that children, due to their lower immunity, make up the majority of cases.

Health officials are advising residents to drink purified water and seek early medical attention if symptoms arise.