As millions of Sudanese return to areas of the capital region damaged by years of war, health workers are facing another serious challenge a rise in malaria cases.
At Omdurman Teaching Hospital, doctors say malaria patients are taking up a large share of the emergency department’s beds. A doctor at the hospital said malaria patients were occupying almost half of the available emergency beds.
Malaria Patients Fill Hospital Beds
- According to the report, the emergency department has around 20 beds, with malaria patients occupying nearly half of them.
- Some patients are suffering from complications or additional infections. Doctors say treatment for some serious cases can take up to two weeks.
- The situation is putting further pressure on Sudan’s already badly damaged healthcare system.
Millions Return to Khartoum State
- More than 2.2 million people had returned to Khartoum State by the end of June, according to the report.
- Many people are returning to homes and communities that were heavily affected by the conflict. However, essential services, including healthcare, water and sanitation, are still facing major challenges.
- The return of large numbers of people is increasing demand for medical services at a time when many health facilities are struggling to operate.
Why Malaria Is a Concern
- Malaria is spread through the bites of infected mosquitoes. Conditions such as standing water, poor sanitation and limited access to healthcare can increase the risk of mosquito-borne diseases.
- Sudan’s prolonged conflict has damaged infrastructure and disrupted healthcare services, making it more difficult for people to receive timely treatment.
A New Challenge for Returning Families
- For families returning to Khartoum, the end of fighting in their areas does not necessarily mean that life has returned to normal.
- Many communities still need functioning hospitals, clean water, sanitation, medicines and other basic services.
- The malaria situation at Omdurman Teaching Hospital highlights the difficulties facing Sudan as people return and try to rebuild their lives after years of conflict.
- Health workers are now dealing with the needs of returning residents while also treating patients suffering from malaria and other illnesses.
Sudan’s Long Humanitarian Crisis
- Sudan has been facing a severe humanitarian crisis since war broke out in 2023. The conflict has displaced millions of people and severely affected the country’s healthcare system.
- As more people return to Khartoum State, rebuilding hospitals and restoring basic public health services will be important for preventing further disease outbreaks.
- The malaria situation is another major health concern for communities trying to recover from the effects of war.
