A Critical Overview Of The Response To The Cholera Epidemic In Lubumbashi

Abstract

Introduction: Cholera remains a major public health challenge in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which is classified as being in an acute crisis situation . This study evaluates the quality of the response in Lubumbashi by examining the organization of treatment centers (TCCs), waste management, and diagnostic performance . Methodology: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted by 129 investigators in the affected health zones . The assessment focused on biosafety compliance (one-way circuit), logistical resources, and the effectiveness of Rapid Diagnostic Tests (RDTs) . Data were analyzed using logistic regression models to identify predictors of compliance . Results: The study reveals that awareness-raising and basic sanitation (29%) are the most frequent activities . The rapid diagnostic test (RDT) demonstrated excellent sensitivity (95.4%) and a positive predictive value of 95.6%, confirming its effectiveness as a rapid screening tool . However, critical gaps remain: 64% of facilities use waste pits for sharps instead of incinerators . Multivariate analysis identifies 24/7 access to electricity as the major independent predictor of biosafety circuit compliance (ORa = 48.1; p = 0.002) . An electrified facility is 48 times more likely to meet protection standards than a facility without a stable power supply . Conclusion: Despite good case detection capacity, the cholera response in Lubumbashi suffers from structural vulnerabilities related to energy deficits and precarious waste management . To achieve the cholera elimination target by 2027, it is imperative to prioritize energy self-sufficiency for cholera treatment centers (solar or generators) and to modernize biosecurity infrastructure . The transition from a purely medical response to a technological upgrade is essential to break the epidemic cycle. Keywords: Cholera, Epidemic response, Biosecurity, Lubumbashi.