Cholera Spreads in DR Congo's Kwango Province Amid Limited Access to Safe Water

A cholera outbreak in the Popokabaka health zone of DR Congo's Kwango province has resulted in 345 suspected cases and 21 deaths as of July 22. Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) is supporting the Ministry of Health in the response, including patient care, epidemiological surveillance, and water, sanitation, and hygiene activities. MSF has established a cholera treatment centre at Popokabaka General Referral Hospital and set up four treatment units and 31 oral rehydration points in the area. However, access to safe water remains limited, with 61% of the population having access to less than 15 litres of safe water per person per day. MSF has established 36 chlorination points to address this risk, but additional efforts are needed to provide sustainable solutions to water, sanitation, and hygiene needs.