Genomic sequences of Vibrio cholerae strains linked to cholera outbreak in Kamituga, South Kivu, DRC

Vibrio cholerae, remains a significant public health challenge globally, particularly in regions with inadequate water and sanitation infrastructure. V. cholerae causes severe diarrhea, which can lead to death if untreated. In Africa, cholera is endemic in several countries, and outbreaks are frequent. The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is among the countries with a high burden of cholera and frequent outbreaks. The recent cholera outbreak in 2023 in the DRC has been particularly severe, with thousands of cases reported across multiple provinces. Understanding the genomic characteristics of V. cholerae strains circulating in the DRC is crucial for effective outbreak control and the development of interventions. Here, we report the genome sequences of four V. cholerae strains isolated from human fecal samples in outbreak incidents in Kamituga during January to May 2024. The genomes could enhance our understanding of the epidemiology of cholera in the wider region and contribute to the efforts for controlling the cholerae outbreaks.