Home | Careers | Contact Us | Newsroom | Donate Now!

The Red Cross strengthens its response to cholera outbreak in Chad

Chad is dealing with a cholera outbreak that has affected over half of its 61 districts.  Statistics show that the cholera outbreak in Chad is getting worse and is spreading not only across the nation, but also into neighbouring countries including Niger, Nigeria and Cameroon.  According to the Ministry of Health more than 11,000 people have been affected and over 340 deaths have been recorded.

The Red Cross is actively responding to meet the needs of thousands of people.   Response activities include the training of local staff and volunteers, building water latrines and disinfecting water points, as well as distributing soap and other hygiene items.  The Red Cross is also focusing on prevention activities and educating communities on how to protect themselves from this disease.

The Canadian Red Cross, in partnership with the French Red Cross, is deploying its cholera treatment centre to provide emergency medical assistance, psychosocial support to those affected and educate communities about epidemics.

Thanks to the support of our donors we are prepared to respond to this emergency – please help us be ready for the next call for help by donating to the International Disaster Relief Fund.  The IDRF allows us to respond within hours of an emergency, well before any money has been received from supporters. It also allows us to implement disaster preparedness programs, such as training local volunteers and creating early warning systems, to create stronger and more resilient communities.  To donate to the IDRF, please call 1-800-418-1111 or click here to donate online.

Posted:  September 9, 2011

ACT NOW