Government steps up efforts to contain cholera outbreak

Health Reporter

Government has intensified efforts to curb the cholera outbreak, which has affected multiple districts across the country since November 2024.

In a statement, the Minister of Health and Child Care, Dr Douglas Mombeshora assured the public of its commitment to contain the disease.

“The Ministry, with support from its partners, is implementing robust cholera control measures to prevent further spread of the disease. These include improved water and sanitation, health education, and active case detection,” said Minister Mombeshora .

The outbreak began on 4 November 2024 in Gatchegatche, Kariba District, Mashonaland West Province. Since then, sporadic suspected and confirmed cases have been reported in seven districts across four provinces.

These districts include Kariba, Chiredzi, Mazowe, Harare North, Bindura, Shamva, and Chipinge.

Dr. Mombeshora emphasized the need for community engagement in combating the disease.

“We urge all citizens to practice good hygiene, avoid consuming unsafe water, and report suspected cases promptly to health facilities. Cholera is preventable and treatable if communities cooperate with health authorities,” he said.

Dr. Mombeshora reassured the nation that the Ministry remains on high alert.

“We will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide regular updates,” he said.

The Ministry revealed that one suspected cholera death and 259 suspected cases have been recorded as of 16 January 2025.

While no laboratory-confirmed deaths have been reported, one confirmed case in Bindura District was linked to a funeral in Mazowe District, underscoring the role of gatherings in the disease’s spread.

Permanent Secretary for Health and Child Care, Dr. Aspect Maunganidze, highlighted ongoing interventions, including the distribution of water purification tablets and the establishment of treatment centres in affected areas.

He noted, “Coordination between Government departments, local authorities, and international partners is key to ending this outbreak.”

Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume called for vigilance, especially in urban areas.

“Harare’s water supply system is under immense strain, making it critical for residents to boil drinking water and observe strict hygiene practices,” Mafume stated.

Government’s response builds on lessons from past outbreaks, focusing on proactive measures and swift containment to prevent further fatalities.

Cholera outbreaks in Zimbabwe are often linked to poor water and sanitation infrastructure, particularly in rural and peri-urban areas.

Public health experts have urged long-term investments in water infrastructure to avert future outbreaks.