Explanatory factors for the occurrence of the cholera epidemic in the Kadutu health zone, city of Bukavu in the Democratic Republic of Congo

Abstract

Abstract Background The Kadutu Health Zone (HZK) in Bukavu, located in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo, is one of the areas most affected by cholera. This study aims to identify the factors explaining the occurrence of cholera epidemics in this region. Methods A case-control study was conducted between January and June 2024, with a sample drawn from cholera cases of the 2023 outbreak. A questionnaire was administered to 112 cases and 224 controls. Data were analyzed using SPSS v 25 software. Results The results revealed nine factors significantly associated with the onset of the epidemic: low monthly income (OR = 2.49; p = 0.010), non-washing of hands before eating (OR = 25.85; p < 0.001) and before breastfeeding (OR = 3.06; p = 0.006), lack of hygiene of soiled hands (OR = 19.37; p < 0.001), defecation outside the toilet (OR = 4.54; p < 0.001), recourse to traditional practitioners (OR = 3.28; p = 0.033), lack of toilets (OR = 2.07; p = 0.017), and lack of knowledge of the modes of transmission (OR = 2.94; p = 0.032) and prevention (OR = 1.75; p = 0.037). Conclusion Cholera prevention in the HZK requires a multisectoral approach, taking into account sociodemographic, economic, environmental, cultural and health factors.