DRC: cholera outbreak spreads, with over 1,700 deaths

The NGO Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) described a concerning deterioration of the cholera epidemic in the Democratic Republic of Congo, as reported by RFI on October 23^rd.

The outbreak was originally declared last May, but it has considerably worsened since. Over 1,700 deaths have been recorded in the past 9 months, making it one of the worst health crisis’ in the country for the last 10 years. Just as the Ebola epidemic was finally coming to an end, the Central African state is swept once again by a new outbreak.

Cholera is an acute bacterial infection that typically causes watery diarrhea or vomiting. Symptoms can be severe if left untreated and cause dehydration; is it particularly dangerous for children and people with poor access to sanitation. The disease has now spread across the country, affecting 20 out of 26 regions, with more than 58,000 suspected cases. North and South Kivu, Eastern regions already devastated by years of conflict between various armed groups, are amongst the most affected areas due to the destruction of the local health system and inadequate access to water. Other factors such as floods, conflicts and population displacement have also contributed to the current crisis.

Local authorities and NGOs are struggling to contain the spread, particularly as the rainy season (from October to December) is likely to further increase the risks of transmission and contamination. Efforts are also hindered by the lack of funding from the Congolese government and of adequate structures. Ton Berg, MSF manager in South Kivu, notes that “existing structures are not equipped to deal with cholera, and there is a shortage of medical supplies and vaccines”.

MSF is now calling for the epidemic to be considered a national emergency and demands a coordinated response with better access to healthcare and vaccination, as well as long-term investments in water and sanitation facilities.