UNICEF is issuing an alert for an outbreak of cholera in the province of North Kivu in the Democratic Republic of Congo. With more than 8,000 children affected, this is the worst cholera outbreak in the country since 2017.
Faced with the scale of this epidemic, UNICEF is sounding the alarm. Shameza Abdulla, UNICEF’s senior emergency coordinator in the DRC, says the current situation must be taken very seriously, as the outbreak risks spreading further, especially in displacement sites where health systems are already overwhelmed.
To deal with this crisis and strengthen prevention and response activities, UNICEF is appealing for $62.5 million. The objective is to be able to take care of 1.8 million people, including 1 million children, in order to stop the spread of the epidemic and guarantee adequate care.
It is important to note that this cholera epidemic occurs in a context of massive population displacements. Indeed, many people have been forced to flee the violence perpetrated by the M23 terrorists, who occupy several territories in the province of North Kivu, with the support of Rwanda.
In 2017, the country had already been affected by a cholera epidemic, which affected all regions, including the capital Kinshasa, causing nearly 55,000 cases and more than 1,100 deaths. It is therefore crucial to take rapid and effective measures to stem this new epidemic and avoid a health catastrophe.
UNICEF plays an essential role in the fight against cholera by providing logistical support, hygiene kits, medicines and vaccines. However, the needs are immense and the resources limited. This is why UNICEF’s appeal for funds is essential to ensure an effective response and save lives.
It is also important to emphasize the importance of prevention and hygiene education in the fight against cholera. Simple measures like hand washing with soap and access to clean water sources can make a real difference in preventing illness.
In conclusion, the cholera epidemic in the province of North Kivu in the DRC is a real health emergency that requires a rapid and coordinated response. UNICEF and other humanitarian actors are working tirelessly to stem the spread of the disease and care for those affected. However, additional resources are needed to deal with this crisis. The situation of children is particularly worrying and it is imperative to provide them with adequate assistance and care. The international community must mobilize to support these efforts and avoid a major humanitarian catastrophe