16 Sep 2018

The Ministry of Health and Wellness is on high alert following Cholera outbreak in Zimbabwe.

A news release from the ministry states that the ministry will keep the public updated on the situation.

Cholera is an acute life-threatening illness caused by infection of the intestine with bacteria called Vibro cholera. 

The disease is spread by consuming food and water contaminated with faeces containing the bacteria.

Cholera present Castro-intestinal symptoms such as nausea and vomiting with frequent profuse rice water stools, fever and rapid loss of body fluids leading to dehydration and shock that may cause renal failure and loss of consciousness.

The ministry cautions the public to strictly observe personal hygiene measures such as washing hands with soap after visiting toilet, before and after handling food and before feeding.

 Furthermore, the release says the ministry also advises the public to drink boiled and safe water, make sure that food is thoroughly cooked and wash fruits with clean water.

According to the release, the public should at all times dispose human excreta properly including children's  faeces and should report to the nearest facility if they suspect any symptoms of cholera.

The release further states that following outbreak, Zimbabwean government declared a state of emergency on September 5 and that the World health Organisation (WHO) report states that nearly 2000 suspected cholera cases have been reported, including 58 confirmed cases and 24 deaths. ENDS