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Correspondence to Author: Hichika Tshikolasoni³, Kimuni Kamona Charles2 , Kasamba Ilunga Éric¹. 

1.Faculty of Medicine, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Lubumbashi.
2.Higher Institute of Medical Techniques of Lubumbashi.
3.Higher Institute of Medical Techniques of Kolwezi.

DOI: 10.52338/wjoep.2026.5454

Abstract:

Introduction: Cholera remains a major public health challenge in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which is classified as being in an acute crisis situation . This study evaluates the quality of the response in Lubumbashi by examining the organization of treatment centers (TCCs), waste management, and diagnostic performance.
Methodology: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted by 129 investigators in the affected health zones . The assessment focused on biosafety compliance (one-way circuit), logistical resources, and the effectiveness of Rapid Diagnostic Tests (RDTs) . Data were analyzed using logistic regression models to identify predictors of compliance.
Results: The study reveals that awareness-raising and basic sanitation (29%) are the most frequent activities . The rapid diagnostic test (RDT) demonstrated excellent sensitivity (95.4%) and a positive predictive value of 95.6%, confirming its effectiveness as a rapid screening tool . However, critical gaps remain: 64% of facilities use waste pits for sharps instead of incinerators . Multivariate analysis identifies 24/7 access to electricity as the major independent predictor of biosafety circuit compliance (ORa = 48.1; p = 0.002) . An electrified facility is 48 times more likely to meet protection standards than a facility without a stable power supply.
Conclusion: Acute appendicitis is not common in elderly but should be ruled out in patients with acute pain abdomen. It carries less favorable prognosis in comparison to young because of associated co-morbiditiesDespite good case detection capacity, the cholera response in Lubumbashi suffers from structural vulnerabilities related to energy deficits and precarious waste management . To achieve the cholera elimination target by 2027, it is imperative to prioritize energy self-sufficiency for cholera treatment centers (solar or generators) and to modernize biosecurity infrastructure . The transition from a purely medical response to a technological upgrade is essential to break the epidemic cycle.

Keywords: Cholera, Epidemic response, Biosecurity, Lubumbashi.

Citation:

Dr. Kasamba Ilunga Éric, A Critical Overview Of The Response To The Cholera Epidemic In Lubumbashi. World Journal of Epidemiology 2026.