An over decade-long conflict in Syria has left more than 15.3 million people in need of humanitarian aid. The non-stop violence, air raids and bombing have done more than destroy the homes and lives of the civilian population, it has also shattered the country’s critical infrastructure leaving them without access to clean water, healthcare, and food. In fact, the conflict has seriously damaged the water and channel networks, resulting in a decreased supply by 40% while only 52% of the hospitals are operational under harsh conditions.

Without clean water and secure healthcare, a cholera outbreak has begun to spread throughout Syria, much like in Haiti. Since the start of the outbreak at the end of August, there have been 84,607 suspected cases reported from all 14 governorates, including 101 attributed deaths to date. However, the situation is difficult to monitor and assess, with many unable to access healthcare and humanitarian aid being constrained due to the conflict between warring parties. 

It is critical that repairs must be made to critical infrastructure so that the Syrian population may avoid the risk of using unsafe water. DotW has mobilized its team to address the growing cholera outbreak. So far it has directly reached 2,458 people and indirectly 12,290 people in need, focusing on preventative measures. However, with the recent earthquake leading to further damage to critical infrastructure, the situation will only continue to grow more dire. The clinics that DotW supports in the northern-part of the country will continue to monitor and provide aid, however it is clear that much more aid is needed by the international community. 

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