Panic as Cholera breaks out in SADC

Panic as Cholera breaks out in SADC

By Pretty Manyewe

Ministry of Health and Child Care has issued a warning to the public regarding the current Cholera outbreaks reported in neighbouring countries within the SADC region.

According to the Ministry’s statement, Malawi, Mozambique, and Zambia have all reported cases of cholera since January 2023, with over 43,000 cases and 1,400 deaths reported to date.

The Ministry is urging the public to be vigilant and on the lookout for symptoms of watery diarrhoea amongst travellers from these countries, particularly considering Zimbabwe’s status as a transit route for many SADC countries.

Speaking on the matter, a spokesperson for the Ministry of Health and Child Care said,
“We are concerned about the risk of importation of cholera cases into the country due to the high human traffic across our borders.”

On the 15th of February 2023, Zimbabwe confirmed a case of cholera in Chegutu town, Mashonaland West Province. The patient presented with watery diarrhoea and vomiting on the 12th of February 2023. Investigations are currently underway after a second case was reported in the same town on the 17th of February 2023.

The Ministry of Health and Child Care is urging the public to take measures to prevent the spread of cholera and other enteric diseases. These measures include drinking and using safe water, practicing good hygiene, using proper latrines or other sanitation systems, and cooking food well and keeping it covered.

“If one suspects cholera, they are advised to visit the nearest health facility for prompt treatment. It is also important to report cases of watery diarrhoea to the nearest health facility or call the Ministry’s Public Health Emergency Operations Centre toll-free number 2019 for assistance,” said the Ministry spokesperson.

The Ministry is reminding the public of the importance of taking necessary precautions during the rainy season, as diarrhoea and other enteric diseases are more prevalent during this time.
“We urge everyone to take the necessary measures to prevent the spread of cholera and other diseases. We must all work together to ensure the health and safety of our communities,” said the Ministry spokesperson.