The global cholera situation is worsening, with outbreaks spreading across 31 countries and a surging fatality rate, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

• Between January 1 and August 17, WHO tracked 409,222 cases and 4,738 deaths globally, with deaths up 46 percent compared to last year.
• The UN health agency stated the deteriorating outlook is "driven by conflict and poverty," making rural and flood-affected areas especially vulnerable.
• Countries like the Republic of Congo and Chad, which had not reported substantial cases in years, are now experiencing the highest case fatality rates at 7.7 percent and 6.8 percent respectively.