Cholera Epidemic in DRC: MSF Responds to Outbreak in Sangé

A significant cholera outbreak in Sangé, South Kivu province, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), prompted an eight-week emergency intervention by Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF). The epidemic, the most severe in the area in five years, has seen a 90% reduction in cases following MSF’s response [1]. The crisis is fueled by limited access to clean water and a fragile healthcare system, exacerbated by ongoing conflict and displacement.

The Cholera Crisis in Sangé

Over 800 people were treated for cholera by MSF during the peak of the epidemic [2]. Cholera is a highly contagious infection caused by bacteria in contaminated water, and can be fatal if left untreated. The outbreak has been particularly challenging due to disruptions in access to safe water sources.

“In the middle of the night, I had excruciating stomach pains followed by vomiting and diarrhea. When I saw that my condition was getting worse, I alerted the neighbors who helped me pay for the motorbike to accept me here to the hospital,” explains Tanishaka, a 48-year-traditional farmer treated by MSF in Sangé [2].

Conflict and Displacement Worsen the Situation

The scarcity of potable water in Sangé stems from the malfunction and inaccessibility of the two main water collection points. Access has been hindered by the presence of armed groups, specifically clashes between the Congolese army (FARDC) and their allies, the Wazalendo, and the armed group AFC/M23, supported by neighboring Rwanda [2]. These conflicts have led to significant population displacement, increasing the risk of cholera transmission.

Residents have been forced to rely on unclean water from rivers and irrigation canals due to the lack of alternatives. “It is dirty water, which is not treated, but due to lack of water, we consume it because we have no other solution. My daughter quickly became dehydrated, she stayed in bed and couldn’t even get up after going to the toilet repeatedly,” says Busime, the mother of a three-year-old girl being treated for cholera [2].

MSF’s Response and Ongoing Efforts

MSF has been supporting the cholera treatment center at the Sangé general hospital and the Ndunda Health Center. Over 50 water chlorination points have been established in the Ruzizi health zone to provide access to safer drinking water [2]. MSF is also working with the community to clean and restore water catchment points, aiming to re-establish filtration and chlorination systems.

“Free access to drinking water collection points is the major problem in the area, this is what must be solved as a priority,” explains Edwige Bagula, MSF medical coordinator [2].

Population movements, driven by conflict, contribute to the spread of cholera as people live in crowded conditions with limited access to clean water and sanitation. MSF is focusing on health promotion, training community relays to recognize cholera symptoms and implement preventative hygiene measures. Cholera is an endemic disease in the region, making ongoing prevention efforts crucial.