Elimination of cholera in the democratic Republic of the Congo: the new national policy

Abstract

We evaluated published and unpublished data on cholera cases and deaths reported from clinical care facilities in the 56 health districts of the Democratic Republic of Congo to the National Ministry of Health during 2000-2011. Cholera incidence was highest in the eastern provinces bordering lakes and epidemics primarily originated in this region. Along with a strong seasonal component, our data suggest a potential Vibrio cholerae reservoir in the Rift Valley lakes and the possible contribution of the lakes' fishing industry to the spread of cholera. The National Ministry of Health has committed to the elimination-rather than control-of cholera in DRC and has adopted a new national policy built on improved alert, response, case management, and prevention. To achieve this goal and implement all these measures it will require strong partners in the international community with a similar vision.

Keywords: Africa; Democratic Republic of Congo; Vibrio cholerae; cholera; elimination; epidemiology.