Localised transmission hotspots of a typhoid fever outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo
This study aims to understand the dynamic of a typhoid fever outbreak and to assess the existence of hot spots for transmission
Abstract
In a semi-urban setting in the Democratic Republic of Congo, this study aims to understand the dynamic of a typhoid fever (TF) outbreak and to assess: a) the existence of hot spots for TF transmission and b) the difference between typhoid cases identified within those hot spots and the general population in relation to socio-demographic characteristics, sanitation practice, and sources of drinking water.
The study found that the role of military camps in Kikwit as early hotspots of TF transmission was likely associated with lower sanitary and hygiene conditions. The proximity of camps to the general population might have been responsible for disseminating TF to the general population. Mapping of cases during an outbreak could be crucial to identify hot spots for transmission and institute corrective measures.
This research was supported by the UK Department for International Development’s Operational Research Capacity Building Programme led by the International Union Against TB and Lung Disease (The Union)
Citation
Ali E, Van Den Bergh R, D’hondt R, Kuma-Kuma D, De Weggheleire A, Baudot Y, Lambert V, Hunter P, Zachariah R, Maes P. Localised transmission hotspots of a typhoid fever outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Pan African Medical Journal. 2017;28:179.
Links
Localised transmission hotspots of a typhoid fever outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo