WHO hands over 800 000 oral cholera vaccines

By Catherine Murombedzi

Harare:The fight to curb cholera infections and deaths continues as the World Health Organization (WHO) hands over 892 286 doses of the oral cholera vaccine.

Professor Jean-Marie Dangou, the WHO country representative handed the consignment
to the Ministry of Health and Child Care at Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport on Saturday evening.
To receive the life-savers was Dr Douglas Mombeshora, accompanied by officials from the health ministry and partners.
In his handover speech, Professor Jean- Marie Dangou said the fight required collaborative efforts.
“Through the collaborative effort of the World Health Organization, UNICEF, GAVI and the leadership of the Ministry of Health and Child Care (MoHCC), we are witnessing a handover of 892 286 doses of oral cholera vaccines. This consignment is part of the 2,3 million vaccine doses Zimbabwe is set to receive following the approval by the WHO International Coordinating Group on Vaccine Provision earlier this month. This handover is a powerful symbol of our collective commitment to protecting lives and safeguarding the health of this great nation.
“However, while the oral cholera vaccines are a critical component in cholera response, it is important to highlight that cholera thrives where sanitation and clean water are scarce or inadequate. “Cholera is a disease of inequality. We must therefore acknowledge the critical work that remains.
“The cholera outbreaks that have swept through Zimbabwe in recent years have served as a stark reminder of the challenges we face. They have exposed vulnerabilties in our water and sanitation infrastructure, highlighting the need for robust surveillance systems, and underscored the importance of community engagement.
“As we move forward, we need to continue investing in these critical areas to ensure that cholera becomes a disease of the past.
“It is with great hope and a shared sense of responsibility that we gather today. We stand at a pivotal moment in Zimbabwe’s fight against cholera, a disease that has caused immense suffering to over 20 000 people and claimed over 300 lives to date,” said Prof Dangou.
WHO recommends use of oral cholera vaccines as an additional measure to limit the spread of the disease during cholera outbreaks, especially in humanitarian crises and areas with ongoing cholera transmission.
“WHO and UNICEF combined efforts have ensured swift vaccine deployment, improved knowledge on cholera prevention measures, and strengthened healthcare systems in affected communites. But the fight against this deadly disease demands a united front.
“We urge all partners, from donors, non-govemmental organizations, civil society and the private sector leaders and individuals, to step forward and join this crucial crusade. By mobilizing resources and expertise, we can not only safeguard the progress made, but ultimately dismantle the conditions that enable cholera to thrive.
“To the Ministry of Health and Child Care leadership: We pledge our unwavering support in your mission to deploy these vaccines effectively and equitably. “Our technical expertise, training programmes, and logistical assistance are at your disposal, every step
of the way.
“To the healthcare workers across Zimbabwe, you are the unsung heroes of this fight. Continue your tireless efforts, reaching every corner of this nation with vital. You are the frontline defense against cholera, and your commitment is an inspiration to all of us.
“To the people of Zimbabwe, remember, the power to protect yourselves and your communities lies within your hands.
“Practice good personal and food hygiene, wash your hands diligently, drink treated or boiled water, and seek immediate medical attention if you experience any symptoms.
“Remember, knowledge is power — educate yourselves and your loved ones about cholera prevention.
“As we move forward from here, let us harness the strength of our partnership, the dedication of our healthcare workers, and the awareness of our communities to conquer cholera once and for all.
“Together, we can ensure that a future free from cholera becomes a reality for every Zimbabwean,” said Prof Dangou.
With schools having opened on the 9th of January, there were fears that cholera would sweep through schools.
With the Ministry of Education working closely with MoHCC, no cholera case has been noted in both day and boarding schools.

In gratitude, the Minister of Health and Child Care, Dr Douglas Mombeshora , noted the rising cases as he welcomed the oral vaccines.

“Cases have been going up, and this reactive campaign is welcome. I encourage Zimbabweans to take these vaccines seriously, but this is a temporary measure.
The government is putting in place a lot of measures on the preventive side to ensure we have clean water and work has already started. More than 3 000 boreholes have been drilled in rural areas, and more resources and effort will be channeled towards this.

“The first batch has already been dispatched to Masvingo Province, and these vaccines will be used as part of the launch on Monday in Kuwadzana, one of the areas most hit urban areas.
“We are expecting more vaccines, and these will be deployed as we receive them in the coming weeks. “Vaccines work, and these vaccines for cholera have no adverse effects recorded here in Zimbabwe,” said Dr Mombeshora.
Cholera remains a disease that can be curbed if people get clean running water, sanitation and observe hygiene.
Without clean water and sanitation there is no hygiene to take of.
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