Yangon, Myanmar's largest city, has experienced a significant increase in acute diarrhea cases, according to state media reports from Friday. The surge in illnesses adds to the widespread hardship in a country already contending with severe monsoon flooding and ongoing civil war.
State-run Myanma Alinn newspaper reported that 182 patients were admitted to Yangon General Hospital over the past four days with diarrhea, and 93 tested positive for diarrhea-causing pathogens. While the specific pathogens were not identified, Myanmar outlet Eleven Media cited a local lawmaker identifying the illness as cholera.
The military’s information team confirmed a 92-year-old patient died from the disease, according to reports Thursday.
Aung Lin Aye, deputy medical superintendent at Yangon General Hospital, noted a substantial rise in diarrhea cases and stated the hospital is prioritizing treatment to prevent fatalities. Nanda Win, head of the Yangon Regional Department of Public Health, indicated that cases are concentrated in the Chinatown area, known for its street food vendors, restaurants, and bars. Contaminated water used by vendors and takeout food were cited as potential sources.
To curb the spread, authorities have requested street food vendors selling high-risk items to close temporarily. Three bars and restaurants in Chinatown confirmed a three-day closure to The Associated Press.
Acute diarrhea is a recurring issue in Yangon during the monsoon season. In 2024, more than 2,200 people were hospitalized with acute watery diarrhea in Yangon, resulting in 15 deaths, according to World Health Organization data. The current outbreak occurs as monsoon flooding continues to impact communities nationwide, compounding the challenges faced by a population struggling with instability since the military seized power in 2021.