Cholera cases reported in Manicaland

Cases of cholera have been detected in parts of Manicaland Province, prompting authorities to intensify surveillance and urge communities to adhere to strict preventative measures.

Manicaland Civil Protection Unit chairman John Misi confirmed the presence of the waterborne disease, saying health officials were already on high alert.

"This is to alert that we have a confirmed cholera case in Chipinge District at Chipangayi Clinic. Two more suspected cases were reported at Elim Clinic in Nyanga. The cases involve a mother and child, and it is alleged the mother works in Mozambique, where diarrhoeal cases have also been noted. The Ministry of Health and Child Care is doing all they can to contain the situation," he said.

Mr Misi added that rapid response teams had been activated and communities in the affected districts were being mobilised to prevent further spread.

"There is need for our structures to do awareness campaigns around the communities to contain the spread of the same," he said.

Cholera is an acute diarrhoeal infection caused by ingestion of contaminated food or water and can spread rapidly in areas with inadequate access to clean water and sanitation.

Mr Misi reminded members of the public to strictly observe preventative measures, particularly in affected and surrounding areas.

"We must always remember some of the preventative measures such as no handshakes. People need to eat hot meals as well as drink safe water - boil water from open sources. People should wash their hands using the pour-to-waste method before eating food, and we also hope that all gatherings around the affected areas will be monitored by the Environmental Health Technicians. More details on these cases shall be shared as guided by the health protocols," he said.

Health authorities are expected to continue monitoring the situation closely, with further updates to be provided as investigations and containment efforts progress.