Cholera outbreak in Mbandaka causes 14 deaths and 129 cases

A cholera outbreak has struck Mbandaka, the capital of the Équateur province, resulting in at least 129 cases and 14 deaths within a few days. According to the provincial health division, the Bolenge health zone is the most severely affected, recording 104 cases.

Health authorities have linked the surge to the recent arrival of boats traveling from Kinshasa. One vessel, the HB Hanawa, reported approximately 100 passengers exhibiting symptoms compatible with cholera out of roughly 800 people on board.

Of the 14 reported deaths, 11 occurred within the community before medical intervention could be provided, while three occurred in treatment centers. Currently, 68 patients have recovered at treatment centers in Bolenge and Wangata. In response, authorities have increased sanitary controls at ports and intensified public awareness campaigns, urging citizens to practice regular handwashing and to boil or treat water before consumption.