Title: Fighting cholera in the DRC: a cry of alarm for the lack of inputs in health zones
Introduction :
The Democratic Republic of the Congo is facing an epidemic of cholera which is raging in the health zones of Kalemie and Nyemba, in the province of Tanganyika. Unfortunately, these areas are currently facing a severe lack of essential inputs to fight this dangerous disease. The Nyemba health zone chief medical officer, Dr Nadège Ramazani, recently issued a cry of alarm over the lack of supplies, jeopardizing efforts to fight cholera.
Logistical difficulties hamper the fight against cholera:
According to Dr. Nadège Ramazani, treatment centers for cholera patients suffer from a lack of essential inputs to carry out their mission. Chlorination and disinfection are sorely lacking, compromising prevention and treatment efforts. Chlorination sites are insufficient and people have difficulty finding them, despite the recommendations of health authorities. In addition, the lack of equipment such as umbrellas, jumpers, cups, chairs and tables further complicates the situation. The treatment centers for cholera patients are at an impasse, due to a lack of adequate logistical means.
The need for systematic disinfection:
To control the spread of cholera, rigorous disinfection is essential. Unfortunately, the lack of proper disinfection presents a real challenge. Not only the places of treatment must be disinfected, but also the vehicles and motorcycles used to transport the patients. It is also imperative to disinfect the houses of the sick, their neighborhood and the latrines. Without this disinfection, the risk of spreading cholera remains high.
A slight decrease in cases, but the need for action remains:
Despite the difficulties encountered, Dr. Nadège Ramazani notes a slight decrease in cholera cases recently. Nevertheless, the number of patients remains high and the situation remains worrying. It is crucial to support the health zones of Kalemie and Nyemba by providing the necessary inputs to fight effectively against cholera.
Conclusion :
The fight against cholera in the DRC is hampered by a lack of essential inputs in the health zones of Kalemie and Nyemba. Logistical difficulties and the lack of disinfection compromise efforts to prevent and treat this deadly disease. There is an urgent need to mobilize resources and provide these essential inputs to protect the population and stem this epidemic. International cooperation and concrete actions by health authorities are essential to help these areas in distress and to fight effectively against cholera in the DRC