CERF gives $2.5 million for cholera response in Sierra Leone

14 August 2012: More than 170 people have been killed in a cholera outbreak in Sierra Leone so far this year. Some 10,800 cholera cases have been reported since January. The epidemic, the worst in 15 years, is concentrated in seven districts including Freetown, the capital. According to United Nations estimates, the outbreak has affected eight of the country's 13 districts. The increase in the number of cases in the Western Area is of particular concern.

In response, the United Nations Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) provided US$2,461,235 to two UN agencies to support cholera surveillance, management and treatment in Sierra Leone.
The UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) received $1,649,014 to strengthen the coordination and response of the Government, UN agencies and other partners. Funds will be used to improve cholera case management in health facilities, deliver essential drugs and medical equipment, improve safe water sources, and conduct community awareness-raising campaigns for people at risk. The World Health Organization (WHO) received $812,221 to ensure effective disease surveillance for early detection and treatment to control the spread of the epidemic. Over 3.4 million people will benefit from CERF-funded activities in Sierra Leone.

For more information about CERF, visit: www.unocha.org/cerf