Cholera ruled out in suspected Victoria Falls case

Laboratory tests have ruled out cholera in a suspected case reported in Victoria Falls, with the patient having fully recovered and no additional cases recorded, health authorities have confirmed.

Hwange District Medical Officer Dr Fungai Musinami said culture results for the suspected case came back negative.

"The culture result was negative. No other cases so far," she said.

The update follows an earlier report in which Musinami confirmed that health authorities were investigating a suspected case but had not recorded any confirmed cholera infections.

She said the patient had since fully recovered, while health facilities had not recorded an increase in diarrhoea and vomiting cases that could indicate a wider public health concern.

Despite the negative results, district health authorities are continuing surveillance to monitor the situation and identify any potential cases early.

"We are continuing to monitor the situation and surveillance activities," Musinami said.

Residents and visitors have been urged to maintain preventive measures, including using safe water, practising proper sanitation and observing good hand hygiene.

Musinami advised the public to wash their hands regularly, use safe water sources or boil water when its safety is uncertain, and make use of appropriate sanitation facilities.

Cholera is an acute diarrhoeal disease that can cause severe dehydration and become life-threatening without prompt treatment. Anyone experiencing diarrhoea and vomiting is encouraged to seek medical attention early.

The suspected case had raised concern after messages about possible cholera in Victoria Falls circulated on social media.

The latest laboratory results have ruled out cholera in the case under investigation. However, health authorities continue to urge the public to follow hygiene precautions and rely on verified information from health officials and credible news sources rather than sharing unconfirmed reports.