From 16 to 20 October 2024, the Ministry of Public Health, in collaboration with various partners, launched a preventive vaccination campaign against cholera in the health districts of Yagoua, Vele and Maga, located in the Mayo-Danay division, which was badly affected by the recent floods in the Far North of Cameroon. This initiative aimed to protect vulnerable populations, with a target of vaccinating 131,604 disaster-affected people aged one year and above.
According to the ministry, the campaign was organized in the disaster-affected resettlement camps and in the surrounding communities, while including some villages affected by the floods. In addition to cholera vaccines, Aquatabs tablets, intended for drinking water, have also been distributed, thus reinforcing efforts to prevent waterborne diseases.
Authorities and humanitarian organizations have warned of the increased risk of the spread of cholera, due to heavy flooding caused by torrential rains in the Far North. The Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has notably expressed concerns about a possible deterioration of the situation, due to continued rains and rising river levels. These conditions not only increase the chances of epidemics, but also compromise ongoing efforts to combat diseases such as cholera, which is endemic in this region. Cholera, an acute diarrheal disease, can cause death within hours if not treated appropriately. Although most infected people only have mild symptoms, prompt treatment with oral rehydration salts is essential. In severe cases, rapid intervention with fluid infusion and antibiotics is necessary.
“Providing safe water and basic sanitation, as well as good hygiene practices, are essential to control the transmission of cholera and other waterborne diseases. Oral cholera vaccines should be used in conjunction with improved water supply and sanitation to limit cholera outbreaks and promote prevention in areas known to be at high risk,” says the World Health Organization (WHO).