The Democratic Republic of Congo has reported 2,057 cholera cases in the 42nd epidemiological week, according to the National Institute of Public Health (INSP). This represents a decline from the 2,300 cases reported in week 41. The data was presented at a multisectoral strategic coordination meeting, which highlighted the ongoing efforts to monitor and respond to the cholera outbreak.
Five endemic provinces in the eastern part of the country account for over 85% of the reported cases. The provinces have been identified as high-risk areas, and health teams are working to strengthen surveillance and prevent further spread of the disease. In Kinshasa, three cases were reported in the Kingabwa health zone, prompting calls for enhanced vigilance due to the area's high population density and poor sanitation.
Health teams are mobilized to reinforce surveillance and prevent the spread of cholera. A vaccination campaign against cholera is scheduled to take place on November 3 along the river corridor between DR Congo and the Republic of Congo. The campaign aims to prevent and control the epidemic, and is part of a broader effort to address the ongoing cholera outbreak.
In addition to cholera, the INSP report also noted a decline in measles cases. A total of 413 cases were reported, down from a higher number in the previous week. This decline is seen as a positive trend, and health officials are exploring ways to gradually deactivate the Incident Management System (IMS) and transfer activities to routine health structures.
The decline in measles cases is seen as a positive development, but health officials remain cautious. The goal is to maintain a multisectoral coordination effort, strengthen interventions in priority areas, and preserve the gains made in responding to the outbreak. The INSP has reaffirmed its commitment to contributing to strategic coordination, epidemiological surveillance, and monitoring of interventions.
While the indicators for cholera and measles are encouraging, the situation with Ebola requires sustained efforts. The INSP and other health partners are working to maintain a high level of vigilance and respond to any new cases. Thirteen new Ebola patients were recently discharged from treatment centers in Beni, a positive development in the fight against the disease.
The DR Congo government and health partners are working together to strengthen surveillance and response efforts. This includes enhancing collaboration between young people and healthcare providers, as well as mobilizing resources to support the response. The goal is to protect the health of the population and prevent further spread of diseases.
Key points
- DR Congo reports 2,057 cholera cases in 42nd epidemiological week, a decline from 2,300 cases in week 41.
- Five endemic provinces in eastern DR Congo account for over 85% of reported cholera cases.
- A vaccination campaign against cholera is scheduled to take place on November 3 along the river corridor between DR Congo and the Republic of Congo.
