Early Detection by Cameroon Red Cross Volunteer Mitigates Cholera Epidemic

In November 2024, a cholera outbreak in Maroua, Cameroon was effectively contained through early detection by Red Cross volunteer Rouyatou. With her training and the support of local health authorities, 127 cases were reported, with two fatalities. Ongoing community education and support from the IFRC, French Red Cross, and EU ensure continued preparedness against disease outbreaks.

When a cholera outbreak occurs, rapid detection and response are crucial to saving lives. In Cameroon’s Far North region, the Red Cross volunteer efforts have significantly aided in limiting the spread of this disease. In November 2024, Rouyatou, a Cameroon Red Cross volunteer from Maroua, received an alarming call from her neighbor, Habiba, who exhibited symptoms of cholera including severe stomach pains, acute diarrhea, and vomiting.

Rouyatou promptly responded, utilizing the training she received from the IFRC, Cameroon Red Cross, and French Red Cross in community-based surveillance. She was equipped with a digital application named Nyss to report diseases efficiently. “When I saw Habiba, I had oral rehydration solution (ORS) with me, so I gave her a sachet and referred her to the nearest hospital. I also directly alerted my supervisor that it was a potential case of cholera,” she stated.

Following Rouyatou’s alert, her supervisor communicated with local health authorities, initiating a rapid outbreak response. The Red Cross team engaged in relentless efforts, monitoring potential cases and conducting various activities to enhance community safety. “We worked hard to raise awareness of the outbreak in the community—visiting people at their homes, mosques, water points, churches, and markets and sharing messages over the radio,” shared Ali Adoum, President of the Maroua 3 District of the Cameroon Red Cross.

The Far North region repeatedly faces cholera outbreaks, yet proactive measures significantly mitigate their effects. Through a Programmatic Partnership with the European Union, the IFRC and French Red Cross have empowered the Cameroon Red Cross, enhancing their epidemic preparedness and ensuring the community’s safety. “The Far North region of Cameroon is prone to cholera epidemics due to limited access to hygiene and sanitation facilities. We trained community volunteers to recognize cholera cases promptly so actions can be taken swiftly,” explained Chimène Kenmeugne Tchuente, Deputy Head of the Epidemic Preparedness program in Cameroon from French Red Cross.

Prior to the cholera outbreak, the partnership provided essential handwashing equipment and cholera kits to local health workers, ensuring immediate response capabilities. The November 2024 outbreak was effectively contained within four weeks, with 127 total cases reported and only two fatalities. Dama Patrice, Head of Maroua 3 District Health Office, credited the Red Cross for limiting the epidemic’s impact: “Thanks to the Red Cross, the cholera epidemic that broke out in the district was brought under control by the provision of medicines, logistical support, and sensitization work by community volunteers in the neighborhood.”

Even after successfully containing the outbreak, Cameroon Red Cross volunteers remain diligent, ensuring ongoing education about various health risks and maintaining vigilance for unusual health patterns. Rouyatou emphasized her commitment to her community: “If we hadn’t detected this case, just imagine…. The whole community would be suffering from this disease. I want the best for my community, and above all, I want to see my community in good health. So, I am proud to volunteer.

The achievements outlined are a testament to the innovative, multi-year Programmatic Partnership with the European Union, which aims to enhance disaster and health emergency preparedness worldwide.

The swift actions of Cameroon Red Cross volunteers, led by the prompt response of Rouyatou, played a crucial role in managing the cholera outbreak in Maroua. The effective training and resources provided through the collaboration between the IFRC, French Red Cross, and EU have shown significant benefits in combating health emergencies. Continuous community education and vigilance remain vital to safeguarding public health against future outbreaks.

Original Source: reliefweb.int