Cholera outbreak worsens in Democratic Republic of Congo

The Democratic Republic of Congo is facing a serious cholera outbreak, said Health Minister Roger Kambale. He warned that the infection is still spreading quickly, and the country is in a high alert phase of the epidemic.

More than 33,000 people have been reported sick across the country. The death rate from cholera is about 2 percent, according to the minister. The World Health Organization (WHO) says that in 2025, cholera cases have already passed last year’s total of 31,749 cases. So far, 17 out of 26 provinces in the country have cholera infections.

In the capital city Kinshasa, where more than 1.7 million people live, about 130 new cholera cases are found each week. The government is opening new treatment centers in Kinshasa and providing free care to confirmed patients.

How to prevent cholera

• Drink clean water: Always drink boiled or filtered water to avoid germs.
• Wash hands regularly: Use soap and clean water especially before eating or cooking and after using the toilet.
• Eat safe food: Only eat well-cooked food and avoid raw or street food that might be contaminated.
• Use safe toilets: Make sure to use proper toilets or latrines to avoid spreading infection.
• Keep your environment clean: Dispose of waste safely and keep your surroundings free from garbage.

Symptoms of cholera

Cholera usually causes:

• Severe watery diarrhea that looks like “rice water”
• Vomiting and feeling sick to the stomach
• Dehydration: signs include dry mouth, extreme thirst, weakness, and little or no urination
• Muscle cramps caused by loss of fluids and salts
• In severe cases, it can cause rapid heartbeat, low blood pressure, and shock.

If someone shows these symptoms, especially after drinking unsafe water or eating risky food, it is important to get medical help immediately.

Different ways to understand cholera symptoms

• Cholera causes lots of watery diarrhea and throwing up, which can make the body lose water quickly.
• When people lose a lot of water, they become very thirsty and tired, and their mouth and skin can become dry.
• If dehydration is not treated fast, it can be very dangerous and even lead to death.
• Parents should watch young children carefully for these signs and take them to a doctor as soon as possible.

The government and health organizations are working hard to control the outbreak by increasing treatment facilities and educating people about safe hygiene and water use.