Kwilu: Cholera suspected in Djuma and Sia after six deaths from diarrhea with dehydration; samples collected

In the Sia and Djuma health zones of Kwilu, six of 19 people with diarrhea and severe dehydration have died since October 19. Health authorities collected samples to determine whether the suspected cases are cholera; patients have received care and epidemiological surveillance has been stepped up. Since the start of the year, Kwilu has recorded 323 cholera cases and 38 deaths. Limited access to safe drinking water leads some residents to use water from the Kwilu River, which may be contaminated.