Cholera Cases Surge in DRC as Floods and Conflict Escalate

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is currently experiencing a significant public health crisis, with cholera cases surging by 30% over the past week. This alarming increase is attributed to severe flooding and ongoing conflict, as reported by the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) on July 17, 2025. The rising number of cholera cases has led to a near doubling of fatalities, with 124 reported deaths in the last week compared to 65 the previous week.

As the DRC grapples with this outbreak, vaccination rates against cholera remain critically low, standing at just 7%. Professor Yap Boum, the deputy head of mpox at the Africa CDC, attributes this to the inaccessibility of affected areas and a shortage of vaccines. In stark contrast, neighboring Sudan has reported a 43% drop in cholera cases due to a robust vaccination campaign that reached over 2.24 million people, achieving 96% coverage in several high-risk localities.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has highlighted the success of Sudan's vaccination efforts, noting that the campaign's multifaceted approach, which included case management, surveillance, risk communication, and improved access to safe water, has contributed to the decline in new cholera cases. The WHO Eastern Mediterranean Region reported that the year-long cholera outbreak in Sudan has infected 87,219 individuals and resulted in 2,260 deaths, exacerbated by conflict-related displacements and damaged water systems.

In light of these challenges, Boum emphasized that addressing cholera requires a comprehensive, multi-sectoral approach beyond medical solutions, focusing on access to clean water and sanitation. He pointed out that Africa has already faced 44 "high-risk" health events in 2025 alone, a significant increase compared to 72 for the entirety of 2024, underscoring the need for efficient resource management amidst escalating health crises.

While cholera cases are on the rise in the DRC, the situation regarding mpox appears to be improving, with a notable decline in reported cases across Africa. Boum reported that nearly three-quarters of mpox cases are concentrated in the DRC, Uganda, and Sierra Leone. However, he noted that some patients are succumbing to co-infections, particularly with measles, which has underscored the necessity of integrating disease control measures.

An innovative approach in Ethiopia has utilized its polio vaccination campaign to also screen for mpox, successfully reaching over 22 million people. This integration of health services has been lauded as a model for other nations.

Furthermore, during the African Union Mid-Year Coordination Meeting in Malabo, Equatorial Guinea, the African Union signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) aimed at strengthening health systems and enhancing healthcare access across the continent. This agreement seeks to bolster public health security and improve emergency response capabilities in Africa, reflecting a proactive stance towards addressing the continent's diverse health challenges.

As the DRC continues to face the dual threats of cholera and the lingering effects of mpox, the need for a concerted global response remains critical. The ongoing conflicts and environmental challenges further complicate the public health landscape, highlighting the importance of international cooperation and sustainable solutions in combating these pervasive health threats.