WHO sounds alarm on cholera surge in Zimbabwe and 10 African countries
Zimbabwe, once enjoying years of relative calm, is now in the throes of a cholera outbreak that began on February 12, 2023.
This resurgence is part of a larger regional challenge, with 10 additional countries in Eastern and Southern Africa, including Malawi, Mozambique, Somalia, Kenya, Ethiopia, Zambia, South Sudan, Burundi, Tanzania, and South Africa, grappling with similar issues related to cholera and acute watery diarrhea.
As of now, a total of 13,176 suspected cases and 1,543 confirmed cases have been reported across the affected nations. This alarming surge in cholera cases underscores the critical need for sustained and coordinated efforts to control the spread of this preventable disease.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued an urgent update, highlighting the gravity of the situation and emphasizing the importance of swift and collaborative action. The organization is calling for increased international support and resources to address the growing health crisis in the region.
Health authorities in the affected countries are working tirelessly to manage the outbreak, with a focus on prevention, treatment, and community education. The WHO is closely monitoring developments and providing guidance to support the efforts of national health agencies.
The cholera outbreak serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of communities to preventable diseases, especially in regions with limited access to clean water and sanitation facilities. The international community is urged to rally together to provide assistance and resources to curb the spread of cholera in affected nations and prevent further escalation of this health crisis. (ILKHA)