Central African Republic declares cholera outbreak after 24 deaths in southern regions

Saturday 27 June 2026 - 16:15

By: Sahili Aya

Central African Republic declares cholera outbreak after 24 deaths in southern regions

The government of the Central African Republic has officially declared a cholera outbreak following 24 confirmed deaths and 197 reported cases in the southern districts of Bimbo and Mbaïki, located near the capital, Bangui.

The announcement was made by the Minister of Health, Dr. Pierre Somse, who stated that emergency containment measures have already been deployed in affected communities as authorities work to limit further spread of the disease.

Emergency health measures activated

According to health officials, preventive measures have been introduced in villages and localities impacted by the outbreak. These include hygiene reinforcement campaigns, water safety interventions and public awareness efforts aimed at reducing transmission risks.

Cholera, an acute diarrheal infection caused by contaminated water or food, can spread rapidly in areas with limited access to clean water and sanitation infrastructure. Health authorities are prioritizing early detection and rapid response to prevent the situation from escalating further.

Focus on Bimbo and Mbaïki districts

The outbreak has been concentrated in the districts of Bimbo and Mbaïki, both situated in the south-western region of the country. These areas are now under heightened surveillance as medical teams work to identify new cases and provide treatment to affected patients.

Local health structures are reportedly coordinating with national authorities to strengthen case management and improve access to essential medical supplies, including rehydration solutions and antibiotics.

Public health challenges persist

The Central African Republic continues to face significant public health challenges, including limited healthcare infrastructure, access constraints in rural areas and recurring outbreaks of infectious diseases. Cholera outbreaks are often linked to seasonal factors, population movement and gaps in water and sanitation systems.

International health organizations have previously emphasized the importance of strengthening disease surveillance systems and improving access to safe drinking water as key measures to reduce vulnerability to waterborne diseases.

Ongoing response and containment efforts

Authorities have reiterated that containment efforts are ongoing and that rapid intervention remains essential to preventing further fatalities. Public health teams are working to trace transmission chains, support treatment centers and reinforce preventive messaging in affected communities.

As the situation develops, health officials are expected to continue monitoring the outbreak closely while coordinating with humanitarian partners to support emergency response operations.