Cholera cases triple in DR Congo

The World Health Organization has launched an intensive operation to combat cholera.

Cases in the Democratic Republic of the Congo have tripled in some areas to 150 a week.

There has been an increase in violence in the eastern part of the country, which has left more than 250,000 people displaced and without proper medical treatment or sanitation.

Lack of clean water has seen cholera cases triple in Goma last month with a rise of up to 150 infections reported at the start of November.

According to the WHO more than 50,000 people died from cholera and dysentery when they crossed into Goma from Rwanda in 1994.

Assistant director-general for WHO's Health Action in Crises cluster Dr Eric Laroche said: "Access to safe water, proper sanitation and health services is essential to prevent [diseases] from spreading to those displaced on roads, residing in temporary camps and living in established communities."

Treatment for cholera includes the issue of rehydration salts, however death can occur in adults within hours, according to the WHO.

News brought to you by Global Health TV, covering the issues of health in the developing world.