Staff Reporter
The Government has advised the public to be on high alert following the current cholera outbreak in the Harare Metropolitan Province.
Addressing the media today, the Secretary of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Harare Metropolitan Province, Mr Tafadzwa Muguti informed that Government had put in place prevention and control measures in all districts.
"I am alerting the public, of the current cholera outbreak within the Harare Metropolitan Province. I am therefore advising the public to be on high alert for symptoms of watery diarrhea and to report to the nearest health facilities for treatment. Please do not ignore or dismiss these symptoms.
“As of 19 of May 2023, there were 288 suspected cholera cases and 84 culture-confirmed cholera cases in the Harare Metropolitan Province, with confirmed cholera cases having been reported in the suburbs of Budiriro, Glenview, Dzivarasekwa, Mt Pleasant, Mbare and Waterfalls,” he said.
Muguti further urged the public to take precautionary measures especially where there are individuals exhibiting symptoms associated with Cholera in order to save lives.
“You are advised to drink lots of fluids such as salt and sugar solution made with safe water or oral rehydration solution and visit the nearest health facility for prompt treatment.
"If anyone has watery diarrhea, immediately report to the nearest health facility or call the Ministry of Health and Child Care Public Health Emergency Operations Center toll free number 2019 for assistance,” said Muguti.
Furthermore, all shops, restaurants, food outlets and schools have been directed to ensure they have clean toilets with running water.
According to the World Health Organisation, cholera is an acute water-borne diarrheal disease that is preventable if people have access to safe water and sanitation and practise good hygiene, but can kill within hours.
Cholera remains a challenge to residents in Harare as the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) led Harare City Council is mismanaging the city by failing to collect garbage and supply clean running water in towns such as Chitungwiza, Epworth and Ruwa.
