Cholera spreads in Burundi's capital
Water shortages and difficult hospital access worsen fears of a growing epidemic in Bujumbura.
Cholera cases are increasing in Bujumbura, Burundi's economic capital, with patients being admitted to Roi Khaled and Prince Louis Rwagasore hospitals. The disease has been confirmed in the Gihosha area, raising concerns about its spread. A patient at Roi Khaled hospital reported a constant influx of cholera patients since the previous week, with new cases appearing daily.
Residents in parts of Gihosha and surrounding areas are also experiencing a significant lack of clean water, which exacerbates fears of cholera transmission. The hospital patient expressed worry about potential contamination from cholera sufferers during lengthy registration procedures before medical assessment. They urged faster examination of new arrivals to isolate cholera cases and protect other patients.
The cholera outbreak in Bujumbura occurs as the disease also affects other regions, including Kizuka and Gatete in Rumonge province, where about 10 cases were reported in late October. Seven people remained hospitalized, one died at home, and three recovered. Poor hygiene and lack of safe water are key factors in cholera's spread, a disease that has seen recurrent outbreaks in Burundi since late 2022.
Why it mattersCholera is spreading in Bujumbura, and water shortages are making the situation worse for residents and hospital patients.