Cholera response strained by shortages and strikes in Equateur
The Equateur provincial health division reports 142 cases and 17 deaths amid a lack of medicine and striking staff.
The fight against cholera in Equateur province faces severe challenges due to a shortage of medical supplies and ongoing strikes by healthcare workers. Treatment centers are struggling with limited beds, and the availability of essential medicines and chlorine stocks has been depleted. This situation complicates the care for an increasing number of cholera patients.
The provincial health division highlighted critical shortages of chlorine, sampling kits, and vital medicines in its November 1st epidemiological update. Both the Bolenge and Wangata cholera treatment centers report being overwhelmed by rising patient numbers. Healthcare providers are also on strike, demanding unpaid bonuses that have been due since the epidemic began.
A national healthcare worker strike, active since October 15, further disrupts health services across the province. The Equateur province has recorded 142 cholera cases, resulting in 17 fatalities. Health authorities are appealing to the government and international partners for increased support to secure medical supplies and bolster response operations.
Why it mattersCholera cases and deaths are rising in Equateur province due to a lack of essential medicines, supplies, and striking healthcare workers.