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HARARE, Zimbabwe – Zimbabwe is grappling with a renewed cholera outbreak, with the Minister of Health and Child Care, Douglas Mombeshora, reporting 124 confirmed cases since November last year. The outbreak has resulted in 15 confirmed deaths, with 608 suspected cases and 566 recoveries recorded.
Addressing a press conference in Harare, Minister Mombeshora revealed that six out of the country’s ten provinces have been affected, with Mashonaland Central Province bearing the brunt of the recent surge. Notably, the majority of cases have been identified among artisanal miners operating along the Mazowe River and in the small farming town of Glendale.
“Artisanal miners move from place to place and as they move, they also spread cholera. As a result, we have seen the persistence of cases coming up from Mashonaland Central Province, especially along the Mazowe River where a lot of gold panning is taking place,” Minister Mombeshora explained.
The minister also highlighted the critical shortage of vaccines, stating, “We are looking at the possibility of getting more vaccines because our stocks have run out. We now have about 4,000 doses only left, which are not enough to deal with the affected areas.”
Recurring cholera outbreaks continue to plague Zimbabwe, largely attributed to inadequate and unsustainable water and sanitation infrastructure.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) defines cholera as an acute diarrhoeal infection caused by consuming food or water contaminated with the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. It poses a significant global public health threat, indicative of social and economic disparities. Access to safe water, basic sanitation, and hygiene are crucial in preventing cholera and other waterborne diseases.
While most individuals experience mild to moderate diarrhea treatable with oral rehydration solution (ORS), severe cases require intravenous fluids, ORS, and antibiotics. Prompt treatment is essential to save lives.
Cholera outbreaks are often linked to limited access to safe water, basic sanitation facilities, and poor hygiene practices. These factors can be exacerbated by conflict, population displacement, climate events such as cyclones, floods, or droughts, and a lack of investment in maintaining and improving water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services and infrastructure.
Disclaimer: This news article is based on information provided by the Minister of Health and Child Care of Zimbabwe and the World Health Organisation. The information is accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time of publication. However, the situation may evolve rapidly, and readers are advised to consult official sources for the latest updates. Medical information provided here should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.1
