The ongoing cholera outbreak has resulted from a massive influx of Internally Displaced Population(IDP) in Nyiragongo and other territories, due to ongoing armed conflicts opposing DRC security and defence forces. 

The likelihood of the situation getting worse is high if the conflict continues to intensify over time with more people arriving in IDP camps. Although the CFR remains low, the proportion of moderate and severe cases is concerning, perhaps inferring late detection and referral of cases.

Additionally, there is a high risk of further spread of the disease to other Health zones and provinces of the country, given population movements due to the ongoing crisis, poor WASH conditions and very limited access to health care services in those areas, and the current rainy season. 

There is also a major risk of spread to neighbouring countries considering population movements between DRC and Rwanda or Uganda. Cross-border collaboration and surveillance should be enhanced, accordingly. The outbreak of cholera was declared on 14 December 2022.