Cholera risk in Lubumbashi

Cholera Prevention Guide for Lubumbashi

Cholera is a bacterial infection that causes severe watery diarrhea and vomiting. It spreads through contaminated water and food. Without treatment, it can kill within hours due to dehydration.

Lubumbashi faces a risk score of 61 out of 100. Several local factors drive this. The city experiences heavy rains between October and March, which overflow sewage systems and flood low-lying neighborhoods. Many residents in areas like Kenya, Katuba, and Kamalondo lack reliable access to clean water and rely on shallow wells that easily flood. The Kafue River and nearby streams used for washing and drinking carry high contamination during rains. Open-air markets sell food exposed to flies and unsafe water. Seasonal spikes between March and May follow the worst flooding.

Five steps to protect yourself and your household:

1. Treat all drinking water. Boil water for at least one full minute, or use certified water purification tablets or chlorine products sold at local pharmacies. Store treated water in clean, covered containers.

2. Wash hands with soap and clean water before eating, after using the toilet, and after handling anything from flooded areas. If soap is unavailable, use ash and water as a temporary measure.

3. Cook food thoroughly and eat it while hot. Avoid raw vegetables washed with unboiled water, uncooked street food, and open-air market fish or meat that has been sitting uncovered.

4. Use latrines and never defecate near water sources. If your latrine floods, report it to local health authorities and use temporary safe disposal methods until it is repaired.

5. Recognize symptoms early. Watery diarrhea and vomiting appearing together, especially after flooding, demand immediate action. Start oral rehydration with clean water, salt, and sugar, then go to the nearest health center or hospital without delay.