Since the beginning of 2023, the health zone of Fizi, located in South Kivu, has been facing a worrying increase in cholera cases. This disease, caused by the consumption of contaminated water, spreads rapidly, endangering the health of the local population.
One of the main causes of this epidemic outbreak is the shortage of drinking water in Baraka, the main town in the Fizi health zone. In this dry season, the population is facing a real crisis of access to a safe and healthy source of water. Faced with this situation, the health authorities are organizing to raise public awareness of the importance of hand washing and the use of hygienic toilets.
The Fizi zone head doctor, Dr Albert Muhangahiko, stresses the urgency of adopting good hygiene practices to prevent the spread of cholera. He insists on the importance of regular hand washing, especially before meals and after going to the toilet. In addition, he calls on household leaders to ensure the installation of hygienic toilets in each household.
Civil society also proposes concrete measures to deal with this situation. In particular, it suggests the installation of water chlorination sites in areas affected by water shortages. These devices would make it possible to purify the water before it is consumed, thus reducing the risk of contamination.
It is essential that health authorities, partners and civil society actively collaborate to stem this cholera epidemic. Increased awareness actions, solutions for access to drinking water and adequate sanitation measures are necessary to protect the population of the Fizi health zone.
In conclusion, the rise in cholera cases in the Fizi health zone is directly linked to the shortage of drinking water in Baraka. It is essential to raise public awareness of good hygiene practices and to put in place concrete solutions to ensure access to drinking water and adequate sanitation facilities