The Regional Strategy against cholera in West and Central Africa, also known as the “shield and sword strategy”, is  an evidence-based and multisectoral approach targeting high-risk areas and populations at local, national, and regional levels, and building  bridges between emergency response and development programs.

The “sword strike” aspect involves intervention during an outbreak, in affected areas, enabling rapid response to support live-saving activities. The “shield” feature is characterized by sustainable and preventive WASH interventions in hotspot areas conducted outside of epidemic periods.The strategy draws upon a roadmap, which consists in six operational steps to progress toward the ultimate goal of cholera elimination through an evidence based and risk informed approach.

• Download the regional strategy " Strategy to control and prevent Cholera in West and Central Africa"
• Download the Cholera Platform brochure " The West & Central Africa Cholera Platform: An information generating and sharing network to prevent and control cholera''

 Find more on the regional strategy: