DRC: Cholera spreads to 18 provinces; 21,000 cases since January

Event

On Wednesday, August 23, UN officials confirmed that the ongoing cholera outbreak has spread to 18 of the country’s 26 provinces, with 21,068 cases and 501 deaths recorded since January. The worst affected provinces are North Kivu, Haut-Lomami, Tanganyika, Central Congo, Kwilu, Maniema, Mai-Ndombe, and South Kivu. Reports say the closure of some water chlorination facilities as well as migration are exacerbating the crisis. International NGOs have deployed to key areas to support treatment and prevention efforts.

Context

Diarrheal diseases are common in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Cholera, an infectious disease caused by the Vibrio cholerae bacteria, is endemic to the country and has become a major public health issue throughout the country. Thousands of cases are reported each year, with more than 700 deaths linked to the disease reported in 2016. Cholera is typically spread via infected water supplies and induces acute diarrhea leading to severe dehydration, frequently resulting in death. The risk of death is greatest among people with compromised immune systems, such as malnourished children or those living with HIV. However, even among healthy adults, cholera can be fatal within a matter of hours.

Advice

To reduce the risk of contracting cholera, wash hands regularly, drink only bottled or purified water, and avoid eating raw or undercooked foods. Individuals who believe they may have contracted cholera should seek immediate medical attention.