Cholera Outbreak Worsens in Democratic Republic of Congo Amid Dual Epidemics

Cholera Outbreak Worsens in Democratic Republic of Congo Amid Dual Epidemics
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The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) continues to grapple with a worsening cholera outbreak, with 1,601 confirmed cases reported across 17 of its 26 provinces, Anadolu Agency reported quoting a Thursday announcement by Health Minister Roger Kamba. The hardest-hit province is Tshopo, with 793 cases. The outbreak coincides with ongoing mpox cases, compounding the country’s health crisis.

Since May, approximately 33,000 suspected cholera cases have been recorded nationwide, with a fatality rate near 2%, mainly due to delays in accessing treatment and shortages of medicines. Cholera, caused by contaminated water or food, spreads rapidly, especially amid mass displacement and multiple disasters affecting the country.

Eleven health zones are preparing reactive vaccination campaigns to contain the disease. Rapid response teams have been deployed to support case detection, investigation, and clinical management. The government, with WHO and partner support, has activated an incident management system to coordinate efforts to halt transmission and reduce deaths.

Minister Kamba urged communities to practice good hygiene, avoid self-medication, and seek prompt medical care when experiencing symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting.