Alarming Surge in Dengue, Cholera, and Mpox Threatens Children Worldwide

Three child-killer diseases—dengue, cholera, and mpox—have surged in 2024, with over 13,600 deaths reported globally, Reliefweb.com reported citing Save the Children.

Dengue cases reached a record 13.3 million, more than double the 6.5 million in 2023, driven by climate change and urbanization. The World Health Organization estimates that 4 billion people are at risk of dengue, a figure expected to rise to 5 billion by 2050.

Cholera reported nearly 500,000 cases this year, with 3,432 deaths by September, despite a 16% decrease in cases. The death rate increased by 126%, largely due to outbreaks in conflict-affected areas with limited healthcare access.

Mpox has also seen a significant rise in infections, particularly among children, prompting the declaration of a public health emergency in August 2024. Experts stress the urgent need for global investment in health systems to protect vulnerable populations and ensure access to essential health services.