Burundi: Elevated cholera activity reported nationwide through February /update 1

Event

Burundian health authorities have reported 76 additional cholera cases between Jan. 6-Feb. 1. This brings the case total to 118 suspected cases (66 confirmed) since Jan. 1, when the first cases were reported. Five districts have reported cholera activity; Bujumbura North (47 cases) is the most affected, followed by Isale (36 cases), Cibitoke (30 cases), Bujumbura South (3 cases), and Bujumbura Centre (2 cases). The Burundian Ministry of Public Health has begun disinfecting affected households and initiated communication-related to cholera transmission. This represents the most complete data available as of Feb. 13.

Context

The Burundian Ministry of Health stated that the current cholera outbreak was caused by heavy rains that hit several parts of Bujumbura, Dec. 26-31. The outbreak began on Dec. 30, 2022, when nine suspected cases were identified in northern Bujumbura. Cholera is endemic in Burundi, especially near Lake Tanganyika and the Rusizi River. Burundi reported 11 cases of cholera in 2021, 277 in 2020, and 1,145 in 2019. Communities that lack access to safe drinking water and proper sanitation are at an increased risk of spreading the disease.

Cholera is transmitted directly through food or water contaminated with fecal material from an infected person. Most infected people develop no symptoms or only mild diarrhea. However, approximately one in 10 infected people develop severe cholera, which causes symptoms including profuse, watery diarrhea, vomiting, rapid heart rate, low blood pressure, muscle cramps, restlessness, or irritability. Symptoms typically appear two or three days after exposure but can develop up to five days after exposure. Individuals with severe cholera can develop acute renal failure, severe electrolyte imbalances, and coma. If left untreated, these can lead to shock and rapid death.

Advice

Consult a travel medicine provider regarding cholera vaccination before traveling to the country. Practice strict food and water precautions. Seek immediate medical attention if symptoms develop within a week of being in areas of high cholera transmission.