National plan for the elimination of cholera in Haiti 2013-2022: short term plan 2013-2015

ABSTRACT

In October 2010, a cholera epidemic, like that of the January 12 earthquake, unexpectedly struck our country. The general population was still recovering and bandaged from injuries inflicted by the earthquake. This epidemic brought to light all the weaknesses of the Haitian health system. Lacking expertise and resources to fight major endemic diseases, this new cholera epidemic gave rise to widespread panic. Officials of all categories (political and technical) rapidly realized that they must roll up their sleeves and manage the situation in order to prevent a rampant increase in the number of deaths and allow the population to rebuild their health. Once again the Friends of Haiti did not compete in this struggle. They rallied tohelp bridge the gap, while transferring their knowledge and expertise to Haitian technical staff. Today, with the commitment of the Haitian state, and the support of all partners, the country is taking a second breath. It sees the future differently because cholera, despite its virulence and lethality, is under control and can be eliminated. In this context, on 11 January 2012, Presidents Michel Joseph Martelly of the Republic of Haiti and Lionel Fernandez of the Dominican Republic committed to undertake actions that could lead to the elimination of cholera by 2022. This committment was restated on 9 October 2012 in Santo Domingo by the Ministers of Health of the two countries. This document, prepared by the Ministry of Public Health and Population in collaboration with partners, is designed to provide a sustainable response by addressing the problem of disposing of cholera in three phases: short, medium and long term, and in four areas of action: water and sanitation, epidemiological surveillance, health promotion for behavior change, and care of infected persons in health institutions. Its strict application by everyone will help us achieve the goal to eliminate cholera by 2022.