WHO Viet Nam
A Vietnamese child in Dak Lak province
Globally diarrhoeal diseases are a leading cause of death, mainly in children and especially in the developing countries. Annually diarrhoeal diseases account for approximately 1.6 million deaths and 4 billion acute cases among children under five years old. Cholera remains a global threat to public health and a key indicator of poor infrastructure and hygiene practices. Every year an estimated 3 to 5 million cholera cases, resulting in 100 000 to 120 000 deaths occurring worldwide.
Effective control measures rely on prevention, preparedness and response. Provision of safe water and sanitation is critical in reducing the impact of cholera and other waterborne diseases.