Cholera risk in Kinshasa

CHOLERA PREVENTION GUIDE FOR KINSHASA

Cholera is a bacterial infection that causes severe diarrhea and dehydration. It spreads through contaminated water and food. Without quick treatment, it can be deadly.

WHY KINSHASA IS AT RISK

Kinshasa faces a cholera risk score of 65 out of 100. Key local factors include: frequent flooding during rainy seasons that contaminates water sources, limited access to clean drinking water in many neighborhoods, overcrowded markets with poor sanitation, broken sewage infrastructure, and informal settlements where hygiene conditions are difficult to maintain. Street food vendors sometimes use unsafe water for preparation.

5 STEPS TO PROTECT YOURSELF AND YOUR FAMILY

1. DRINK SAFE WATER ONLY. Boil all drinking water for at least one minute or use water purification tablets. Avoid tap water, open wells, and untreated river water. Store clean water in covered containers.

2. WASH HANDS THOROUGHLY. Use soap and clean water before eating, after using the toilet, and after handling raw food. If soap is unavailable, use ash or hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol.

3. EAT FOOD SAFELY. Cook all food thoroughly, especially fish and meat. Peel fruits and vegetables. Avoid raw or undercooked street food. Eat food while it is still hot. Wash all utensils with clean water before use.

4. USE PROPER SANITATION. Use latrines or toilets. Never defecate near water sources or open areas. Dispose of children's waste immediately. Keep living areas clean and free of standing water where mosquitoes and bacteria breed.

5. SEEK CARE IMMEDIATELY IF SICK. If you develop severe watery diarrhea, go to the nearest health center without delay. Oral rehydration salts can save lives. Do not wait. Carry a sick person to a health facility as soon as possible. Early treatment with antibiotics and rehydration prevents death.

REMEMBER: Cholera is preventable. Clean water, clean hands, and safe food are your best protection.