03 Feb 2016

Zimbabwe has registered about six cases of Typhoid fever, according to the Ministry of Health.

The Zimbabwe case followed the outbreak of the fever in South Africa,.

A press release from the ministry says this brings the number of confirmed typhoid fever cases in SADC region to about 10. 

It says the free movement within the SADC region makes it easy for the Typhoid fever to circulate. 

The ministry, therefore, reminds the public to be extra vigilant by observing health precautions below:

Washing fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating or cooking them.

Washing hands with soap after visiting the toilet, before and after handling food and before feeding children

Cooking food thoroughly and boiling water if not sure of the source

Food handlers to observe good hygiene practices including personal hygiene

Improved hygiene namely: disinfection of surfaces including toilets, bathrooms and kitchens

Appropriate disposal of all waste including human waste

The release says typhoid fever is highly contagious and can be fatal if left untreated; it is caused by salmonella species of bacteria.

It states that symptoms of Typhoid fever include extreme fever, headaches, joint and muscle pains, abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, sweating, extreme swollen abdomen and vomiting.

The ministry advises the public to quickly visit the nearest health facility if they experience any signs and symptoms associated with Typhoid fever.

The release says all public health facilities are on high alert to provide the necessary health services.

The ministry continues to monitor the situation at all levels and will keep on updating the public. Ends