Zimbabwe battles cholera outbreak in Kariba

Zimbabwe is grappling with a new cholera outbreak in the fishing town of Kariba, just a year after it declared an end to the previous outbreak. The current wave has resulted in 21 confirmed cases, with the first reported case leading to one fatality.

Dr. Godfrey Muza, the District Medical Officer for Kariba, confirmed the outbreak and outlined the response measures being implemented. "We have set up cholera treatment camps at the clinic, Gache Gache, and oral rehydration points in affected villages," Dr. Muza said. "We are receiving assistance from local partners as well as regional organizations such as Médecins Sans Frontières and UNICEF."

The initial cases were recorded on November 6, 2024, from the Gache Gache fishing camp. Health teams are on the ground conducting risk communication activities, engaging with the community on health and hygiene promotion, and assisting with improving sanitation practices.

The outbreak has sparked concern about the ongoing vulnerability of Zimbabwe to waterborne diseases, especially after the country had declared itself cholera-free in July 2024, following a large outbreak that began in February 2023. The recurring nature of cholera outbreaks highlights persistent weaknesses in the country's water, sanitation, and hygiene infrastructure.

Itai Rusike, the executive director of the Community Working Group on Health, noted that cholera remains a significant public health threat, particularly in areas with inadequate access to clean water and sanitation. "The persistence of cholera in these areas reflects weaknesses in water and sanitation infrastructure, high-risk hygiene and social practices, and gaps in surveillance and healthcare systems," Rusike said.

Rusike emphasized the importance of addressing the root causes of the outbreaks at the community level. "Ensuring basic water access, sanitation, hygiene practices, and solid waste management is critical for the prevention and eventual elimination of cholera," he stated.

Cholera has now become endemic in Zimbabwe, often linked to poor water and sanitation conditions. The country's worst cholera outbreak occurred in 2008/2009, which saw 98,592 cases and 4,288 deaths. Despite ongoing efforts to improve public health infrastructure, the recurrence of cholera underscores the need for sustained attention to sanitation and water safety.

Health authorities are working to contain the current outbreak and prevent further spread, but the country's vulnerability remains high as the battle against cholera continues.