Cholera remains one of the most dangerous water-borne diseases in crisis situations. When a cholera epidemic occurs, it can spread very quickly, particularly in areas affected by conflict, population displacement and the collapse of health systems.
Faced with this cholera emergency, Mehad takes action every day to prevent the disease, treat patients and protect the most vulnerable populations.
What is cholera and what are the risks?
Cholera is an acute intestinal infection caused by bacteria transmitted through contaminated food or water. It causes severe diarrhoea and vomiting, which can lead to rapid dehydration. Without appropriate treatment, the disease can be fatal in a matter of hours.
The risks are particularly high in areas where :
- access to drinking water is limited,
- sanitation infrastructures are destroyed,
- people are living in camps or precarious shelters.
This is why cholera prevention and rapid cholera treatment are essential to saving lives.
Cholera prevention according to Mehad
For Mehad, prevention is at the heart of what we do. Our teams work directly with communities to :
- Raising awareness of essential hygiene rules (hand washing, water treatment, food safety).
- Distribution of hygiene kits (soap, water purification tablets, jerrycans).
- Training local health teams and community relays to detect the first cases quickly and alert medical facilities.
- Promote preventive vaccination in at-risk areas wherever possible
Cholera treatment and care with Mehad
When the disease is declared, cholera treatment must be immediate. Mehad deploys systems adapted to emergency situations:
- Administration of oral rehydration solutions in the majority of cases
- Intravenous infusions for serious cases
- Prescription of antibiotics where necessary and personalised medical monitoring
- Training local teams to strengthen response capacity over the long term
Mehad’s commitment to the local community
In contexts of conflict and humanitarian crisis, cholera is much more than a disease: it is a symptom of profound inequalities and inadequate access to essential services.
Faced with each cholera epidemic, the NGO remains mobilised to limit the spread. Our commitment is to remain on the ground, close to vulnerable populations, to ensure rapid, effective and sustainable access to healthcare.
