In March 2024, Mayotte—a department of France, or a territory considered part of France—health authorities shared that the island was dealing with an outbreak of cholera.
Cholera is an acute diarrheal disease and bacterial infection caused by Vibrio cholerae. Although media coverage of cholera can be frightening, only 10% of cases are severe and life-threatening. Symptoms can include watery diarrhea that is often pale and milky-looking, leg and muscle cramps, dehydration, nausea and vomiting, irregular heartbeat, shock, and seizures. If you are showing signs of severe diarrhea and vomiting, please seek medical help right away.
This infection is spread through contaminated food or drinking water, as well as exposure to fecal matter from infected individuals. People living in places with unsafe food or water, as well as poor sewer symptoms, are at the highest risk of developing cholera.
Unfortunately, Mayotte is known for being a poorer department. It has high levels of immigration, including people coming through the Comoros islands from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), exacerbating social and economic pressure and increasing the risk of spreading disease. It was migrants in Mayotte who first showed signs of cholera. Economic disparities mean many people live in poverty. Further, the infrastructure challenges mean that people lack access to clean water, electricity, and healthcare facilities.
Cholera Deaths in Mayotte
58 cases of cholera have been identified in Mayotte since the first case was discovered in March. RFI reports that, as of early May, the first person in Mayotte has died due to this infection. A young toddler in Koungou sadly passed away from this illness, prompting a recognition that new policies or procedures are needed to protect the population.
Following the toddler’s death, Health Minister Frédéric Valletoux traveled to Mayotte to learn more about their struggles, offer condolences, and begin the conversation on how to implement stronger preventative measures. Additionally, almost 20 new doctors and nurses traveled to the island to provide help.
