The organization Doctors Without Borders has confirmed the continued spread of cholera in the Democratic Republic of Congo, reporting that from the beginning of the year until mid-October, more than 1,700 deaths have been recorded.
According to the organization, 20 of the country’s 26 provinces are now affected by the epidemic, warning that the disease is spreading to new health zones, including regions that had previously been spared. It noted that the deteriorating situation is due to factors such as flooding, conflict, population displacement, and lack of access to clean water and adequate sanitation systems. With the approaching rainy season, the risk of further spread increases.
Doctors Without Borders stated that cholera should now be considered a national emergency, calling for coordinated action, including the rapid provision of healthcare and vaccination, as well as sustainable investments in water and sanitation infrastructure.
The epidemic continues to spread under extremely dangerous conditions, particularly in the eastern part of the country. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs has warned of a collapse of the health system in North and South Kivu. According to the UN, 85% of health facilities there lack medicines, and nearly 40% of staff have left their jobs. In North Kivu alone, over one-third of the facilities located in conflict zones have been destroyed, looted, or abandoned.