UNICEF is scaling up its support to the Ministry of Health and Population in the Central African Republic (CAR) to contain a cholera outbreak affecting the health districts of Bangui 2, Bimbo, and Mbaïki.
Active transmission continues in these areas, and children account for nearly half of all reported cases. The Ministry officially declared the outbreak on 26 June 2026 following laboratory confirmation by the Institut Pasteur in Bangui. As of 6 July 2026, a total of 435 suspected cases and 36 deaths have been reported, resulting in a cumulative case fatality rate of 8.3 per cent. Children under the age of 10 represent 44 per cent of all cases, underscoring their heightened vulnerability to the disease.
The outbreak continues to spread along the Ubangi River, which forms the southern border between CAR and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), affecting multiple communities and increasing the risk of transmission to additional localities. Given the high mobility of populations and the river’s role as a major transport corridor, health authorities and partners remain concerned about further geographical expansion.
Félix Ackebo, UNICEF Representative in the Central African Republic, noted that the high number of deaths, particularly those occurring at the community level, is deeply concerning and highlights the need for rapid access to treatment, safe water, and accurate health information. He stated that UNICEF is working closely with the authorities and partners to strengthen case management, improve access to safe water, and support communities to protect themselves from the disease.
To strengthen the health response, UNICEF rapidly mobilized lifesaving supplies and technical support. The organization has provided cholera kits capable of treating up to 300 patients, distributed 2,000 doses of oral rehydration salts (ORS) and zinc for community-level treatment, and installed additional tents to expand the capacity of the national cholera treatment and referral centre from 40 to 70 beds. To reduce transmission and improve access to safe water, UNICEF has also supported several water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) interventions.
Félix Ackebo emphasized that with early detection and treatment, cholera is preventable and treatable. He urged families to seek care immediately if a child or family member develops acute watery diarrhoea or vomiting, and to follow guidance on handwashing, safe water treatment, and sanitation. Meanwhile, UNICEF continues to work in close coordination with the Ministry of Health and Population and partners to strengthen surveillance, improve access to treatment, support infection prevention and control, and help contain the spread of the outbreak.
ABJ/APA