Conflict, crisis fuel cholera surge across Mideast hot spots

By KAREEM CHEHAYEB
Associated Press

BHANINE, Lebanon (AP) — Thousands of cholera cases have swept across Lebanon, Syria, and Iraq in recent weeks. All three countries are struggling with crumbling health care and water infrastructure, turmoil and housing displaced people. That prevents an adequate response to the rapidly spreading disease. The outbreak marks a major setback for global efforts to eradicate cholera and reduce deaths related to the water-borne illness by 90% by 2030. Aid groups are trying to contain the outbreaks, providing medical aid, clean water, and water-sanitization tablets in neighborhoods and refugee camps. The U.N. children’s agency says it urgently needs over $40 million just for its work in Syria and Lebanon.