Cholera claims 3,644 lives in DRC as country battles double epidemic

What the report says

The Observer reports that the Democratic Republic of Congo is facing a worsening cholera crisis alongside a separate Ebola outbreak, according to the World Health Organization. By the end of September 2026, cholera had killed at least 3,644 people nationwide, with more than 125,000 suspected cases reported. WHO data cited in the article says more than 51,412 suspected cholera cases, including 1,487 deaths, were recorded across 21 provinces since the start of 2026.

The situation appears most severe in South Kivu, North Kivu and Haut-Katanga, which together account for nearly 60% of suspected cases. The report says transmission remains high in areas where cholera is endemic, while insecurity and poor road access are slowing response efforts in eastern DRC. Health teams have struggled to reach some communities, including Kibua and Masisi, and delays in getting patients to care are increasing the risk of deaths.

According to WHO, the outbreak is being fueled by limited access to safe water and sanitation, with environmental conditions such as rainfall and use of well water adding to contamination risks. Response measures under way include plans for water chlorination sites in North Kivu, household and latrine disinfection in Tanganyika, and vaccination campaigns in affected areas and along the Congo River corridor.

The article says the cholera emergency is unfolding as the country also battles Ebola, placing further strain on an already pressured health system. WHO has stressed that rapid treatment, clean water, sanitation and hygiene remain central to reducing illness and deaths.