Mogadishu (Kaab TV) – Puntland’s Ministry of Health is actively monitoring suspected, unidentified disease outbreaks across the Bari region, specifically in communities like Gaatir Oodan, Sheebaab, and Dasaan.

Cases of diphtheria have been increasing in Puntland regions in recent months, with reports indicating that several people have died from the disease in some districts.

Recent reports tracking the severe diphtheria outbreak in Somalia documented at least 132 deaths out of over 3,000 suspected cases nationwide. In Puntland alone, health authorities recorded at least 39 deaths and over 1,100 suspected cases during the most intense wave of the epidemic. 

The districts of Eyl and Jariiban are among the areas reporting fatalities linked to the outbreak, which is a dangerous infection that affects the throat, nose, and skin.

The disease mainly affects people over the age of 60, children under five, and malnourished individuals living in crowded or unhygienic conditions.

Puntland’s Ministry of Health is actively monitoring suspected, unidentified disease outbreaks across the Bari region, specifically in communities like Gaatir Oodan, Sheebaab, and Dasaan.

Diphtheria spreads easily through sneezing, coughing, physical contact, shared clothing, and the sharing of food or drinks.

Dozens of individuals have been isolated and treated in local health facilities for a yet-to-be-identified illness in the Bari region, with the Ministry actively dispatching teams to determine the exact cause.

Diphtheria (Gawracato) re-emerged as a major public health concern, disproportionately affecting children under 15 who lack adequate vaccination history.

Patients present with fever, vomiting, and breathing difficulties.

Puntland and the wider Somalia region frequently grapple with a cycle of disease upsurges driven by climate shocks, drought-induced displacement, and limited access to clean water and sanitation

This surge comes days after ongoing regional vulnerabilities, including acute malnutrition which targeted more than 6 million Somalis and waterborne risks.

The Puntland Ministry of Health, which addressed the outbreak a few days ago, stated that 579 people have been admitted to health facilities with the disease this year, while 21 people have died from it.