[Analytical study of an epidemic of bacillary dysentery in Rwanda. Epidemiologic and bacteriologic aspects]

From january 1985 to march 1985, an epidemic of bacillary dysentery stroke one of the region in north Rwanda. The area struck, only 160 km2, is densely populated (720 inhabitants/km2). Multiresistant Shigella dysenteriae n. 1 is the only responsible factor. The study of this epidemic shows that, from an endemic disease, burst out can occur in a narrow area and in a short interval of time (7 weeks). The main risk factors have been identified on individual as well as collective level. The authors demonstrate the interest of a Public Health Laboratory as technical support of an Epidemiology Monitoring Department.