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Cholera

Cholera Outbreak in the Republic of Congo: UN Health Agency Responds Swiftly with Support and Expertise

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

As the Republic of Congo faces a cholera outbreak, the World Health Organization (WHO) has played a crucial role in responding to the crisis. The outbreak, which has affected over 430 people and caused 34 deaths, has highlighted the need for swift and effective action to prevent further spread. Since the official declaration of the outbreak on July 26, 2025, WHO has worked closely with the government and partners to deploy multidisciplinary teams to priority areas, providing critical support and expertise.

Key Takeaways:

  • The cholera outbreak in the Republic of Congo has affected over 430 people and caused 34 deaths since July 26, 2025, with the most affected age group being between 15 to 24 years old.
  • WHO's Incident Management System (IMST) was activated, and three multidisciplinary teams were deployed to priority areas, including Mbamou Island, Talangaȯ in Brazzaville Department, and Mossaka-Loukolela in Congo-Oubangui Department.
  • WHO provided 7 tons of cholera medicines and kits, established treatment centers in Mbamou, Mossaka, and Talangaȯ, and trained 172 health workers in case management and infection prevention.
  • The organization also provided a speedboat to facilitate transport between Mbamou Island and Brazzaville, enhanced surveillance at entry points, and supported the disinfection of 61 wells and several health facilities.
  • The fatality rate on Mbamou Island was halved, dropping from 11.7% to 4.8% within two weeks, with 5 active cases hospitalized and 7 receiving outpatient care as of August 15, 2025.

Statistics:

  • 430 people affected by the cholera outbreak in the Republic of Congo since July 26, 2025
  • 34 deaths caused by the cholera outbreak
  • 15-24 years old is the most affected age group
  • 7 tons of cholera medicines and kits provided by WHO
  • 172 health workers trained in case management and infection prevention
  • 250 community relays educated on preventive measures
  • 61 wells and several health facilities disinfected
  • 12 active cases on Mbamou Island as of August 15, 2025
  • 5 active cases hospitalized
  • 7 active cases receiving outpatient care
  • 11.7% to 4.8% reduction in fatality rate on Mbamou Island within two weeks

Sources:

  • APO Group on behalf of World Health Organization (WHO) -- Republic of the Congo, "Cholera Outbreak in the Republic of Congo: UN Health Agency Responds Swiftly with Support and Expertise" (no date)
  • World Health Organization (WHO), "Cholera Outbreak in the Republic of Congo" (no date)

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