Cholera in Congo
Wednesday, 6 March, 2002

WHO reports a major outbreak of cholera ( 5021 cases of cholera and 407 deaths) in Katanga province of The Democreatic Republic of the Congo. The outbreak started in November with a total of 8 health zones being affected.

The disease cholera is caused by a food and water borne bacteria. The organism is found widely in the developing world, mostly in areas where sanitation infrastructure is lacking. It is estimated that only 1 in 500,000 travellers will have symptomatic illness.

The Travel Doctor TMVC does not generally recommend cholera vaccination with the old whole - cell vaccine. It is poorly protective and has high rates of side effects. The Group is however evaluating the role of the new oral vaccine for long term residents in cholera endemic areas. At this stage the Travel Travel Doctor group feels that care with food and beverage selection is far more important than vaccination.

Cholera vaccination is not subject to International Health Regulations for any country however there are a few border crossings in Africa where customs officials may seek a certificate of vaccination.

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