Zimbabwe Records Zero Cholera Cases In July

By Catherine Murombedzi

Harare-ZIMBABWE has reported zero new cholera cases as of July 28, 2024 the Ministry of Health and Child Care, through the Zimbabwe Cholera Situation Report has said.

The country has recorded zero confirmed laboratory cases, zero hospitalisation countrywide, and zero community deaths in July.

Countrywide, a total of 631 suspected cholera deaths with 88 laboratory confirmed deaths. (Note: Suspected cases or deaths mean that the patient had all the symptoms of cholera, but were not laboratory confirmed).

Of the country’s 64 districts, 63 districts have reported cholera cases so far.

Cholera cases are higher during the rainy season due to contaminated water sources, flooding and overflowing latrines/sewage.

Poor sanitation and hygiene lead to poor waste management which are fertile breeding grounds for the cholera bacteria.

These factors create an ideal environment for cholera to spread, leading to a higher risk of outbreaks during the rainy season.

VACCINATION CAMPAIGN

Zimbabwe conducted another round of the Oral Cholera Vaccination (OVC) campaign from 22 July to 29 July 2024 in some cholera hotspots targeting 212 052 people.

On the fourth day of the campaign, 180 067 people were vaccinated, achieving an overall coverage of 84.91%.

Cumulative Cases Zimbabwe has recorded 34 550 cumulative suspected cholera cases, 4 221 confirmed cases, and 33 831 recoveries.
Global notifications from the World Health Organization (WHO) show a cumulative total of 249 793 cholera cases and 2 137 deaths across 25 countries from January 1 to June 30, 2024.

The Ministry of Health and Child Care advises that prevention remains pivotal, more important than treatment.

WASH, meaning Water, Sanitation Hygiene can prevent cholera.

Cholera is caused by a bacterium called Vibrio cholerae. The bacteria thrives in contaminated food and water.

Feaces of infected individuals. Raw or undercooked seafood, especially fish and unhygienic environments.

When ingested, the bacteria release a toxin that affects the small intestine, causing diarrhorea, vomiting, and rapid fluid loss and dehydration.

The homemade sugar-salt rehydration solutions should contain 8 level teaspoons of sugar and 1/2 a level teaspoon of salt added to 1 liter of boiled but cooled water.

If left untreated, cholera can lead to severe dehydration, shock, and even death.

Anyone with a running stomach must make the sugar salt solution and drink immediately to replace the lost fluids as one seeks prompt medical treatment.

Most people can recover from cholera.

PREVENTION MEASURES

Use clean and safe water for drinking, cooking, and washing. Boil water before consumption. Use water purification tablets or a filter to make drinking water safe.

Wash hands frequently with soap and clean water, especially after using the toilet, before eating, and after handling food.
Ensure proper disposal of human waste, and maintain clean toilets and surroundings.
Eat cooked food hot, avoid raw or undercooked seafood, and avoid foods from street vendors. Avoid foods that may be contaminated with feces, such as raw vegetables or fruits that may have been washed in contaminated water. Avoid foods from street kitchens where hygiene is next to nothing.
Get vaccinated against cholera, especially if you live or you are set to travel to an area with a high risk of cholera. Keep your community clean, and ensure proper waste management.

Keep fingernails clean and short, and avoid touching your face or mouth.

Seek medical attention immediately if you suspect cholera symptoms.

Educate yourself and others about cholera prevention and symptoms.

Cholera is not a tired story.

The media must keep cholera on the public health agenda.

●Catherine Murombedzi is an award winning health journalist and media consultant.

She writes in her own capacity.

Feedback: cathymwauyakufa@gmail.com