The Ministry of Health and Child Care has released the weekly disease surveillance report for the week ending January 19, 2025.
According to the Ministry, a total of 6,958 cases of common diarrhoea were reported, resulting in 6 deaths. The fatalities occurred in various regions: 2 at Sally Mugabe Hospital in Harare, 1 in Bikita District (Masvingo), 1 in Mutoko District (Mashonaland East), 1 in Mazowe District (Mashonaland Central), and 1 in Kwekwe District (Midlands). Among the reported cases, 3,040 were in children under the age of 5. The provinces with the highest case numbers were Manicaland (1,029) and Mashonaland West (988). Cumulatively, there have been 19,441 cases and 12 deaths related to common diarrhoea.
In the case of malaria, 1,048 new cases and 5 deaths were reported. The fatalities were spread across Mutare District (Manicaland), Sanyati District (Mashonaland West), Chiredzi District (Masvingo), and two hospitals in Harare—Sally Mugabe Hospital and Parirenyatwa Hospital. Of the malaria cases, 12.5% (131 cases) were in children under five years old. The highest numbers were reported in Manicaland (665 cases) and Mashonaland West (133 cases). Cumulative figures for malaria stand at 2,186 cases and 9 deaths.
Anthrax cases were reported in Gokwe North District (5 cases), Gokwe South District (1 case), and Sanyati District (1 case). There were no reported deaths, and cumulative figures for anthrax cases are now 19, with no fatalities.
Measles saw 4 new suspected cases, with reports coming from Mashonaland West (1 case), Mashonaland East (1 case), and Harare Metropolitan Province (2 cases). The total number of suspected measles cases is now 12, with no deaths.
There were 471 dysentery cases reported, along with 1 death from Hurungwe District in Mashonaland West. The highest case numbers were recorded in Mashonaland Central (108 cases) and Mashonaland West (82 cases). Cumulative cases for dysentery stand at 1,405, with 1 fatality.
One suspected typhoid case was reported, with no deaths. The cumulative number of suspected typhoid cases is now 2, with no deaths.
A total of 18 mumps cases were reported, with no fatalities. The highest number of cases came from Mashonaland West (6 cases), followed by Mashonaland East (3 cases) and Masvingo (3 cases). Cumulative figures for mumps are 41 cases, with no deaths.
There were no reported cases of Mpox this week, and the cumulative figures remain at zero.
A total of 736 dog bite cases were reported, with no fatalities. Of these, 180 were bitten by vaccinated dogs, 154 by unvaccinated dogs, and 402 by dogs of unknown vaccination status. Masvingo Province recorded the highest number of dog bite cases (124), followed by Manicaland (107). The cumulative total for dog bites is now 2,049, with no deaths, resulting in a case fatality rate (CFR) of 0%.
In terms of cholera, 13 suspected cases were reported, with no deaths. The suspected cases were from Mazowe District (12 cases) in Mashonaland Central and Kariba District (1 case) in Mashonaland West. The cumulative total for cholera now stands at 85 suspected cases and 1 suspected death.
Finally, influenza cases have risen to 2,535, with no reported deaths. Manicaland recorded the highest number of cases (847), followed by Mashonaland West (704). The cumulative number of suspected influenza cases is now 6,868, with no fatalities.

Pindula News

In the news, the Ministry of Health reported that there were many cases of diarrhoea, malaria, and other diseases in Zimbabwe. Over 6,900 cases of diarrhoea and 1,048 cases of malaria were recorded. Some people died, especially children. Other diseases like anthrax, measles, dysentery, typhoid, mumps, and dog bites were also reported, but no deaths. Cases of influenza also increased. In total, there were many sick people, but not many people died from these diseases. The Ministry is working to stop the diseases from spreading.

Weekly Disease Surveillance: Over 6,900 Diarrhoea Cases And 1,048 Malaria Cases Recorded

The Ministry of Health and Child Care has released the weekly disease report for the week ending on 12 January 2024.
The report highlights a total of 639 malaria cases and one death in Guruve. Notably, 10.3% of these cases involved children under five years old. The provinces with the highest number of cases were Manicaland with 354 and Mashonaland Central with 117. The cumulative figures now stand at 1,138 cases and four deaths.
This week, one suspected typhoid case was reported, with no deaths. The cumulative figures for typhoid are one suspected case, no deaths, and a case fatality rate (CFR) of 0%.
A total of 26 suspected cholera cases and one suspected death were reported this week. The suspected death occurred in Harare Province’s southern districts. Out of the suspected cases, 25 were from Mazowe District, and one was from Harare’s Southern District.
The cumulative figures for cholera are 72 suspected cases, one suspected death, and no confirmed deaths, with a cumulative CFR of 1.4%. All provinces and cities are expected to strengthen their Rapid Response Teams (RRTs) on surveillance, infection prevention and control (IPC), and case management.
This week also saw 188 dysentery cases with no deaths reported. The provinces with the highest number of clinical dysentery cases were Mashonaland Central with 96 and Mashonaland West with 92. The cumulative figures for dysentery are 934 cases and no deaths.
New anthrax cases were recorded, with three cases in Gokwe North District, two in Sanyati District, and two in Mwenezi District, bringing the cumulative figures to 12 cases and no deaths.
Furthermore, there were 6,506 common diarrhoea cases reported this week, resulting in seven deaths. The deaths were reported from Sally Mugabe Hospital (6) and Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals (1) in Harare Metropolitan Province.

The Ministry of Health in Zimbabwe released a report on diseases. There were 639 malaria cases, with one death, most in Manicaland and Mashonaland Central. One typhoid case was reported with no deaths, and 26 cholera cases with one death. 188 cases of dysentery were reported with no deaths. New anthrax cases were recorded in various districts. Additionally, there were 6,506 cases of common diarrhoea with seven deaths in Harare Metropolitan Province. Health authorities are working to strengthen response teams for surveillance and prevention of these diseases.

Zimbabwe Health Update: Latest Figures on Malaria, Typhoid, Cholera, and Anthrax

Health and Child Care Deputy Minister Sleiman Timios Kwidini toured Glendale in Mazowe District, Mashonaland Central Province on Tuesday, following a Cholera outbreak in the area on December 21, 2024.
Since the outbreak was detected, 104 cases and one death have been recorded. The Ministry has administered 5,000 doses of the Oral Cholera Vaccine (OCV) to combat the spread of the disease.
The outbreak has been attributed to erratic water supplies, unattended burst sewer pipes, and the consumption of water from shallow wells.
To address the water shortages in the area, the National AIDS Council (NAC) has pledged to drill two boreholes in Glendale and install two 5,000-litre tanks at Mazowe Flowers Compound.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Cholera cases in Mazowe District have increased to 104, with one death. The Deputy Minister of Health visited the area to help. They gave 5,000 vaccines to stop the disease from spreading. The outbreak happened because of no water, broken pipes, and drinking dirty water. The National AIDS Council will build two boreholes and tanks to help with the water shortage. Everyone is working hard to stop more people from getting sick.

Cholera Cases In Mazowe Surge To 104

There has been one death and 60 cases of cholera reported at two locations in Mazowe: the Mazowe Flowers Farm compound and the Glendale Highway suburb.
At the Mazowe Flowers Farm compound, the water supply comes from a single borehole with no storage tank, and at the Glendale Highway suburb, sewage overflow has contaminated shallow wells.
To address this health crisis, the Ministry of Health and Child Care has set up oral rehydration centres at both locations and is running door-to-door health and hygiene awareness campaigns. They are also monitoring public gatherings and food vendors.
In an interview with <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/60-cases-of-cholera-reported-in-mazowe/">The Herald</a>, Takura Mzorodzi, the provincial health promotion officer, urged local authorities to provide safe water to communities.
The cholera outbreak started on December 21, 2024, at the Mazowe Flowers Farm compound, which relies on a single borehole and has limited sanitation facilities.
The water supply from the borehole was disrupted due to power issues. Similarly, the Glendale Highway suburb experienced a week without running water. Said Mzorodzi:
<blockquote>
This area also has burst sewer pipes, and many residents have shallow wells at their homes. The sewage overflow contaminated the water sources during the rains.
Gatherings, including funerals, will be monitored by health personnel to ensure access to water and sanitation and to regulate attendance numbers.
</blockquote>
He urged community members to practice good hygiene, particularly washing hands with running water after using the toilet. Said Mzorodzi:
<blockquote>
Individuals will be screened at oral rehydration centres and will receive hydration and proper education on cholera, especially during the rainy season.
We are also targeting food-selling points, including those selling roasted cobs, to establish handwashing facilities.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

A cholera outbreak in Mazowe has led to one death and 60 cases of infection in two locations. The Mazowe Flowers Farm compound and Glendale Highway suburb are affected. The Ministry of Health and Child Care has set up oral rehydration centres and is spreading awareness about health and hygiene. There are issues with water supply and sewage contamination. People are being urged to wash hands, use safe water, and attend gatherings responsibly. It is important to practice good hygiene and get education on cholera. Food vendors are also being monitored for hygiene practices.

Cholera Outbreak Hits Mazowe: One Dead, 60 Infected

Over 2,000 people have been vaccinated against cholera in Ward 2 of the Nyaminyami (Kariba) Rural District Council after an outbreak at the nearby Gatche Gatche fishing camp earlier this month.
One person has died, and the Ministry of Health and Child Care reported 97 suspected cholera cases as of yesterday, including five primary schoolchildren among the suspected cases.
Kariba District Medical Officer, Godfrey Muza, told <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200035482/5-000-targeted-in-kariba-cholera-vaccination">NewsDay</a> on Sunday that more than 2,600 people have been vaccinated so far.
In response to the outbreak, organisers of the Nyaminyami Festival, scheduled for this Friday, have cancelled the event. Said Muza:
<blockquote>
In light of the cholera outbreak, we have consulted with provincial health authorities and determined that all activities should be suspended until the situation normalises. The health and safety of our community must come first.
</blockquote>
The Kariba Health and Wellness Tournament, originally scheduled for November 27-30 this year, has also been postponed.
In a statement, Desmond Anele Gumbochumba, the Kariba District Development Coordinator and Civil Protection Unit Chairperson said that efforts are underway to reschedule the tournament, with plans to hold it in the first quarter of 2025.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Over 2,000 people got vaccinated in Kariba because of a cholera outbreak. One person died and 97 people got sick. The Nyaminyami Festival was cancelled due to the outbreak. The Kariba Health and Wellness Tournament was also postponed. The organisers are planning to reschedule it for 2025. They want to keep everyone safe and healthy.

Over 2,000 Vaccinated In Kariba Following Cholera Outbreak

Zimbabwe has reported new cases of cholera months after declaring the end of a previous outbreak that killed over 700 people in 18 months.
On Wednesday, health officials confirmed a new cholera outbreak in Kariba District, where 21 cases have been recorded and one person has died.
The Kariba district medical officer, Dr. Godfrey Muza said the government is working to contain the situation. He said (via <a href="https://www.voanews.com/a/zimbabwe-sees-new-cholera-cases-after-declaring-end-to-outbreak/7862861.html">VOA</a>):
<blockquote>
We have set up a cholera equipment camp and some oral rehydration points within the affected villages.
We are getting assistance from local and regional partners like MSF [Medecins Sans Frontieres, also known as Doctors Without Borders] and UNICEF.
Our teams are on the ground doing risk communication and community engagement activities on health promotion, hygiene promotion and assisting the community in terms of improving sanitation.
</blockquote>
Dr Norman Matara of Zimbabwe Doctors for Human Rights said the government must address the underlying conditions that allow waterborne diseases like cholera to spread. He said:
<blockquote>
In public health, we often say cholera is a disease of poverty which mainly affects people with inadequate access to safe water and basic sanitation.
In Zimbabwe, we have witnessed perennial cholera outbreaks in recent years and these outbreaks are being caused by a lack of safe drinking water supply and a broken-down sanitation system which leaves residents in densely populated communities surrounded by flowing sewer.
This sewer will then contaminate alternative sources of water such as shower wells, streams, rivers and even boreholes resulting in people drinking or eating food contaminated with the cholera bacteria.
</blockquote>
Matara said that for Zimbabwe to get out of this cycle of recurring cholera outbreaks, it needs to do the following:
<blockquote>
We need to make sure that our hospitals are well-supposed with real addressing solutions and medicines so that people can be assisted.
… Also, in those high-risk communities, especially in towns and urban cities, we may give them the oral cholera vaccine so that they may be protected.
In the long term, the government needs to invest more in proper sanitation facilities and infrastructure as well as make sure that people are provided with clean safe water for drinking and cooking.
</blockquote>
In August, the Zimbabwean government declared the 18-month-long cholera outbreak officially over. The outbreak had affected nearly 35,000 people and claimed more than 700 lives.
This is not the first time Zimbabwe has faced a cholera crisis. In 2008, a devastating outbreak reported over 98,000 cases and more than 4,000 deaths.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Cholera has come back to Zimbabwe after a recent outbreak. In Kariba District, 21 cases have been found with one person dying. The government is trying to stop this by setting up camps and oral rehydration points. Doctors say the main cause is poverty and lack of clean water. To prevent more outbreaks, they need proper hospitals, medicines, vaccinations, sanitation, and clean water. In the past, many people got sick and died from cholera in Zimbabwe. Officials hope to prevent this from happening again by taking action now.

Cholera Strikes Again In Zimbabwe

The Zimbabwean government has announced that the country is now free from cholera, with no new cases reported in the past 30 days.
During a weekly post-cabinet media briefing on Tuesday, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Jenfan Muswere provided an update on the cholera situation in the country.
Muswere said Zimbabwe recorded its first cholera case in February 2023, which then spread to most parts of the country, leading to a declared national outbreak.
However, the minister noted that the country’s cholera burden is now officially over, with no new cases reported in all 63 districts. He said:
<blockquote>
The Ministry of Health and Child Care would also want to inform the nation that as of today we have had 30 days without a single case of cholera in all our 63 districts and that the last case was on 30 June 2024 in Beitbridge.
Therefore, we are now declaring that the cholera outbreak, which started in February 2023, as officially ended. However, the public is encouraged to continue observing hygiene and sanitation at all times.
</blockquote>
The Minister of Health and Childcare Douglas Mombeshora urged members of the public to continue with good hygiene and sanitation practices. Said Mombeshora:
<blockquote>
A lot of people relax when we say cholera is gone. What it means is that the interventions that we undertook as ministry and as government, those interventions have yielded the results that we wanted that is to make sure that we suppress cholera.
But we still have challenges of water and sanitation in certain areas. So, we urge our people to continue with good hygiene and sanitation practices.
</blockquote>
Cholera is an acute diarrheal illness that can spread rapidly in areas with poor sanitation and limited access to clean water.
The disease is primarily spread through the consumption of contaminated food or water, such as water sources that have been polluted by faecal matter containing the cholera bacteria.
The main symptom of cholera is profuse, watery diarrhoea that can lead to rapid dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. Other symptoms may include vomiting, muscle cramps, and rapid heart rate.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The Zimbabwean government says no new cases of cholera in past 30 days. The first case was in Feb 2023 and spread to many areas. All 63 districts now free from cholera. People urged to keep good hygiene and sanitation to prevent cholera. Cholera spreads in dirty areas. Symptoms include diarrhoea, dehydration, and vomiting. Government asks people to keep being clean to stop cholera spreading again.

Zimbabwe Declares Cholera Outbreak Over After 30 Days Without New Cases

More than 2.1 million Zimbaweans have been vaccinated against cholera in the single dose reactive campaign to curb the latest outbreak of the disease that has been reported in all of the country’s 10 provinces.
The month-long vaccination drive, which ended on 22 February 2024 in Harare, targeted people older than one year in 26 high-risk districts in seven provinces.
The 2 303 248 vaccine doses were received in Zimbabwe in three batches, with the final batch of 66 612 received on 17 February 2024.
The vaccination campaign was supported by the World Health Organization (WHO) in the African Region.
The first phase was completed in target districts in Harare province, as well as in Masvingo, Midlands and Mashonaland Central, achieving over 90% coverage.
Vaccination teams went from door to door, complementing fixed vaccination points in all health facilities in the affected areas.
Each vaccination team comprised three community health workers (comprised of a vaccinator, social mobilizer and recorder), and vaccinated an average of 150 people a day.
The Ministry of Health and Child Care, in collaboration with other ministries and supported by WHO, United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and other partners, rolled out a multisectoral cholera response.
It focuses on streamlining the coordination of the outbreak response at all levels, treatment of cases and prevention, through improved access to safe water, sanitation, personal and food hygiene, and the dissemination of preventive messages to vulnerable and at-risk populations.
Jean-Marie Dangou, Acting WHO Representative in Zimbabwe said:
<blockquote>
While oral cholera vaccines are a critical component in the cholera response, it is important to highlight that cholera thrives where sanitation and clean water are scarce or inadequate.
Cholera is a disease of inequality. We must therefore acknowledge the critical work that remains.
</blockquote>
According to the Ministry of Health and Child Care, as of 4 March 2024, Zimbabwe had 27 182 suspected Cholera cases, 2 734 confirmed cases, 26 482 recoveries, 71 confirmed deaths and 502 suspected deaths.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

More Than 2.1 Million People Vaccinated Against Cholera In Zimbabwe

Learners at Sally Mugabe Primary School, formerly Russel Primary School in Kwekwe District, Midlands Province, are vulnerable to cholera after the school received more than 1 000 learners from Globe and Phoenix Primary School.
As reported by <a href="https://thenewshawks.com/kwekwe-pupils-vulnerable-to-cholera/">The NewsHawks</a>, the Civil Protection Unit (CPU) in Kwekwe District relocated learners from Globe and Phoenix Primary School to Sally Mugabe after classrooms caved in due to illegal mining last year.
However, authorities have not expanded water and sanitation facilities at Russel Primary to accommodate learners from Globe and Phoenix.
This week, Fortune Mpungu, the Kwekwe CPU chairperson, told NewsHawks that the facilities at Sally Mugabe can cater for learners from Globe and Phoenix. He said:
<blockquote>
We have provided temporary classroom tents at the school where the pupils have been relocated to and that is Sally Mugabe Primary.
In terms of water and sanitation facilities, all the students are using the old ones. They are enough.
We are working with the Ministry of Health on preventing cholera at the school. We feel we are on top of the situation.
Besides, plans are already there for the construction of a new school and we are waiting for the rainy season to end so that the work can begin.
Plans and designs for the new school have already been drawn and very soon construction will begin. The stay of the pupils at that school is temporary.
</blockquote>
However, The NewsHawks reported sources at Sally Mugabe Primary School as saying a health time bomb is looming at the institution.
The CPU has not provided mobile toilets or water bowsers to cater for the increased number of pupils. Said the source:
<blockquote>
We are talking about 1 300 pupils who have been relocated to a school that already had overpopulated children with limited water and sanitation facilities such as ablution blocks.
The number of students is overwhelming the facilities already and general workers are failing to maintain hygiene at the toilets.
When there are water outages, there are no additional supplies that are on standby.
</blockquote>
According to the Ministry of Health and Childcare, as of 07 February 2023, Midlands Province had 569 suspected Cholera cases, 17 confirmed cases, 528 recoveries, 0 confirmed deaths and 36 suspected deaths.
Globe and Phoenix Primary School, which was constructed more than a century ago, was abandoned after a classroom block collapsed into a mine shaft on 16 March 2023.
The learners have been learning under tents at Russell Primary School grounds where they have been camped since last year.
The underground tunnels that destroyed the school were dug by illegal gold miners linked to ZANU PF.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Globe and Phoenix Primary School Learners Vulnerable To Cholera

New residential suburbs in Gweru, Midlands Province, have become cholera hotspots as the areas lack proper water and sanitation facilities.
Addressing an ordinary council meeting on Tuesday this week, Gweru mayor Martin Chivhoko said as of 06 February 2024, the city had recorded 17 cholera cases. Said Chivhoko (via the <a href="https://newsday.co.zw/southerneye/local/article/200022827/new-gweru-suburbs-are-cholera-hotspots">Southern Eye</a>):
<blockquote>
Most of the cases from Gweru have been recorded in the new residential areas where there is no municipal water supply and sewerage.
It is rather sad that some residents get their drinking water from shallow wells and practice open defecation which is a high risk in terms of personal and environmental hygiene.
</blockquote>
Chivhoko said the Gweru City Council will descend on land developers who fail to provide water and sanitation infrastructure for new stands. He added:
<blockquote>
The city has, however, set up the Infectious Diseases Hospital (in Ascot suburb) as the cholera treatment centre with all health facilities such as cholera treatment units.
Oral rehydration points will be set up at shopping centres and schools if cases rise beyond the threshold.
</blockquote>
Chivhoko urged residents to adhere to hygienic practices such as regular washing of hands, eating hot and properly handled food and seeking early medical attention.
According to the Ministry of Health and Childcare, as of 7 February 2024, Zimbabwe had 23 181 suspected Cholera cases, 2 422 confirmed cases, 22 469 recoveries, 71 confirmed deaths and 437 suspected deaths.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

New Gweru Suburbs Are Cholera Hotspots - Mayor

The Southern African Development Community (SADC) is holding a virtual extraordinary summit of Heads of State and Government this Friday, 02 February, to discuss the cholera outbreak in the region.
In a statement, the SADC Secretariat said the extraordinary summit will receive and consider the report regarding the cholera outbreak in several member states, their state of preparedness and responses to the outbreaks.
The summit is being chaired by SADC Chairperson President João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço of Angola. Reads the statement:
<blockquote>
The fight against cholera aligns with the African regional framework for the implementation of the global strategy for cholera prevention and control, 2018-2030.
This framework supports the new global strategy for cholera control at the country level, providing a definitive pathway towards a world where cholera no longer poses a threat to public health.
</blockquote>
The extraordinary SADC summit was preceded by the extraordinary meeting of the Committee of Sadc Ministers of Health with technical support from the World Health Organisation, the United Nations International Children’s Fund (UNICEF) office for Eastern and Southern Africa and the Africa Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) and another extraordinary meeting of the Sadc Council of Ministers.
According to OXFAM, Malawi, Mozambique, Zambia and Zimbabwe are facing an unprecedented surge of cholera cases.
In <a href="https://www.oxfam.org/en/press-releases/southern-african-countries-face-terrifying-and-overwhelming-cholera-outbreak-covid">a statement issued two weeks ago</a>, OXFAM warned that the situation could become uncontrollable and difficult to manage.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

SADC Leaders Hold Virtual Extraordinary Summit On Cholera

The Government of Japan has donated US$774 000 to Zimbabwe through the United Nations Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) to assist the country’s fight against a cholera outbreak.
The fund will specifically target the most vulnerable communities in Manicaland Province, which is the hardest-hit province in the country.
According to the Ministry of Health’s cholera statistics, as of 01 February 2024, Manicaland had 1 102 confirmed cholera cases, with Harare, which has the second-highest number of cases, having recorded 663 confirmed cases.
UNICEF Zimbabwe Representative, Dr. Tajudeen Oyewale, expressed gratitude to Japan for the funding. Said Oyewale:
<blockquote>
We are extremely grateful to the Government of Japan for this support. It exemplifies their commitment to the people of Zimbabwe, addressing the urgent needs of affected communities and building resilience against public health emergencies.
The grant will provide a comprehensive range of life-saving support, including access to safe water, critical hygiene materials, healthcare, nutrition, child protection, and other essential social services.
It arrives at a crucial time in the cholera response, as Zimbabwe strives to allocate resources to urgently address and interrupt the cycle of cholera transmission.
</blockquote>
According to the Ministry of Health, as of 01 February 2024, Zimbabwe had 22 105 suspected Cholera cases, 2 388 confirmed cases, 21 378 recoveries, 71 confirmed deaths and 421 suspected deaths.
As of 31 January 2024, a total of 103 735 people had received the Oral Cholera Vaccine.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Japan Donates US$774 000 Towards Zimbabwe's Cholera Response In Manicaland

The Ministry of Health and Child Care has trained 987 nurses on Rapid Antigen RDTs (Rapid Diagnostic Tests) for cholera with support from the World Health Organisation (WHO).
In a recent cholera update, WHO said that this initiative allows for faster results, enabling prompt medical intervention and outbreak containment. It said:
<blockquote>
Traditional cholera diagnosis often relies on cultural methods, which require sophisticated equipment and trained personnel. This can prolong diagnosis and delay treatment, particularly in remote areas.
Rapid Antigen RDTs offer a game-changer, faster results as RDTs deliver results within 15-30 minutes, enabling prompt medical intervention and outbreak containment. Nurses can readily perform RDTs, even in resource-limited settings.
With trained nurses equipped for RDTs, diagnosis becomes readily available at local health facilities, eliminating the need for patients to travel long distances to centralized laboratories.
Recognising the crucial role of nurses in frontline healthcare, the Ministry of Health and Child Care (MoHCC) has given priority to their training in RDTs.
This promotes the quick identification of cholera cases, and early diagnosis allows for prompt isolation and treatment, which minimizes transmission risks.
Furthermore, accurate and timely diagnosis improves case management, leading to better patient outcomes, as it guides optimal treatment.
Decentralised testing also facilitates comprehensive community-level surveillance, enabling early detection and outbreak control.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe is currently grappling with a cholera outbreak and as of 31 January 2024, the country had 21 835 suspected Cholera cases, 2 387 confirmed cases, 21 134 recoveries, 71 confirmed cases and 416 suspected deaths.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zimbabwe Trains 987 Nurses On Rapid Cholera Testing

The Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Torerai Moyo, has commended schools for complying with the regulations set by the government in response to the cholera outbreak.
<a href="https://cite.org.zw/govt-praises-schools-for-cholera-response/">CITE</a> reported Moyo as saying all the schools that he has toured since the commencement of the 2024 First Term complied with the regulations. Moyo said:
<blockquote>
When schools opened, we were already faced with the pandemic. We requested, through a circular, that all schools ensure they have water at all times at washing facilities, at the gate and outside classroom blocks.
We are glad that at all the schools we have toured thus far in various provinces, there is complete compliance.
I would also like to commend Bulawayo Province for being the best province in terms of output.
Your results have been the best: 80 per cent pass rate in 2021, 86 per cent in 2022, and a remarkable 92 per cent pass rate last year.
This is a great improvement and these are fantastic results.
</blockquote>
School authorities present pleaded with the Government to provide more funds for the construction of classroom blocks.
A representative from the National Association for Secondary Schools (NASH) said that the acute shortage of classrooms was forcing some schools to resort to double sessions.
Moyo acknowledged the challenges faced by schools and assured them that the government intends to allocate at least US$5 000 to 250 schools each towards the development of learning infrastructure.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Education Minister Praises Schools For Cholera Response

Zimbabwe will this Saturday, 27 January receive the third batch of 294 000 oral cholera vaccines (OCV), bringing the total number of vaccine doses available in the country to 892 000, reported <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/zim-takes-delivery-of-cholera-vaccines/">The Herald</a>.
The country was allocated 2.3 million oral cholera vaccine doses from the international coordinating group on vaccine provision, with the vaccination campaign set to commence on 29 January.
Speaking after receiving a consignment of cholera medicines and supplies worth US$265 000 from UNICEF in Harare on Friday, Health and Child Care Minister Dr Douglas Mombeshora said:
<blockquote>
We are waiting for the last batch and hoping that by tomorrow we will receive the third batch of 294 000 doses to make them 892 000. We should start our vaccination campaign from January 29 up to February 2.
But we are expecting 2.3 million doses so we will be vaccinating as they come. The second tranche of another 894 000 doses will be coming and we will dispatch it until the 2.3 million doses are completed.
</blockquote>
He said the campaign would initially target hotspots, mainly Manicaland, Masvingo, Harare, Mashonaland Central, and Mashonaland West provinces.
The supplies received by the Government yesterday comprised antibiotics, oral rehydration salts, infusion giving sets, and other commodities used in the treatment of the disease. Added Mombeshora:
<blockquote>
Amongst the reported cholera cases, 31 per cent were under 15 years of age, while 14 per cent were children under the age of five.
As we can see today, most of the commodities we have received will cater for children, and vulnerable people and these commodities will go a long way in reducing the mortality in children.
</blockquote>
As of 25 January 2024, Zimbabwe had 20 678 suspected Cholera cases, 2 332 confirmed cases, 19 971 recoveries, 71 confirmed deaths and 389 suspected deaths.
60 out of the 63 districts in Zimbabwe have reported cholera cases and poor water supplies, sanitation, and hygiene have been identified as the major contributors to the outbreak.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zimbabwe Takes Delivery Of 294K Cholera Vaccines

The Harare City Council has conceded that the removal of street vendors has been a failure.
The Government recently ordered the local authority to remove vendors from the streets in the Central Business District to curb the spread of cholera which has since been detected in almost all districts in the country.
On Wednesday, several senior Government officials met with the media to give an update on the state of water, sanitation, hygiene and current cholera outbreak control in Zimbabwe.
Speaking at the meeting, City of Harare health services department director Dr Prosper Chonzi said (<a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/we-have-failed-to-remove-vendors-harare-city-council/">via Chronicle</a>):
<blockquote>
An order was made for us to remove all the food vendors in Harare to ensure that our streets are clean. But as you have seen we haven’t done very well there.
The general economy is playing against us. We have been playing hide and seek after vendors and it isn’t working.
We are glad now that the Government has come up with Chenesa Harare, and if we clean up for now then we come up with medium and long-term plans to maintain the clean environment that’s there.
As the Director of Health in the City, I’m not happy with the vending situation in the city, it’s plain against what we are trying to achieve and contain the outbreak. And trying to enforce not giving us the intended results.
</blockquote>
Chonzi said there must be a change of mindset and residents should know that they risk contracting diseases by buying food from uninspected places.
As of 24 January 2024, Zimbabwe had 20 446 suspected Cholera cases, 2 324 confirmed cases, 19 711 recoveries, 71 confirmed deaths and 381 suspected deaths.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Harare City Council Concedes Failure To Remove Street Vendors

Zimbabwe is this week set to take delivery of a consignment of close to one million cholera vaccines from the International Coordinating Group (ICG), which will be delivered in batches.
<a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/zim-receives-one-million-cholera-vaccines">The Sunday Mail</a> reported that the Ministry of Health and Child Care has secured about 2 2 million doses of the oral cholera vaccine (OCV).
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health and Child Care Dr Aspect Maunganidze said they will roll out a vaccination programme starting on 29 February. He said:
<blockquote>
We expect these vaccines in Zimbabwe anytime next week (this week). We then intend to start the vaccination programme from February 29, 2024, in a phased approach in the hotspots.
We will be targeting the hotspot areas, also known as Prioritised Areas for Multi-Sectoral Interventions, where cases are being reported currently.
These areas include targeted districts in the most affected provinces of Harare, Manicaland, Masvingo, Midlands, Mashonaland East, Mashonaland West and Mashonaland Central.
</blockquote>
The districts targeted are Mutare Rural and Urban, Buhera, Gutu, Chiredzi, Mwenezi, Mberengwa, Zvishavane, Uzumba-Maramba-Pfungwe, Kariba, Mazowe, Mbire and Mt Darwin.
In Harare province, Dr Maunganidze said, vaccines will be administered in Kuwadzana, Glen View, Budiriro, Mbare, Southlea Park, Highfield, Glen Norah and Chitungwiza.
Maunganidze said everyone above the age of one year will be eligible to receive a dose. He added:
<blockquote>
For this campaign, only one dose will be given as opposed to the usual two doses.
One dose will protect the individual for at least six months as opposed to two doses, which have a protection of above three years.
The vaccine is not an end to cholera, but a temporary measure which should be complemented with tangible investment in safe water provision, health education on hygiene practices, increase in sanitation coverages, elimination of open defecation and removal of solid waste.
The streets need to be clean with no dumping and avoidance of food vending and preparation from undesignated areas.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe is currently battling a cholera outbreak that has so far claimed 71 lives, while more than 340 others are suspected to have succumbed to the disease.
As of 18 January 2024, Zimbabwe had reported 19 090 suspected cholera cases, 2 231 confirmed cases and 18 340 recoveries.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zimbabwe Set To Receive One Million Cholera Vaccines

The Ministry of Health and Child Care in Zimbabwe is concerned about the spread of cholera during funeral gatherings. They have urged the public to report all deaths that occur in the community so that health workers can supervise the burials, especially those resulting from diarrheal causes, whether or not they are confirmed cases of cholera. In a statement seen by Pindula News, the ministry observed that funeral gatherings have become super-spreaders of the disease. Read the statement:
<blockquote>
The Ministry of Health and Child Care in Zimbabwe as realised that funeral gatherings are acting as super-spreaders of Cholera in Zimbabwe. Therefore, the  Ministry is advising all members of the public to report all deaths that occur in the community and that all burials especially from diarrhoeal causes, whether proven Cholera or not should be supervised by health workers. Eating at burials should be limited.
</blockquote>
This comes after the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2024/01/18/zimbabwes-health-ministry-gives-update-on-cholera-outbreak/">ministry issued another statement</a> noting that as of January 17, 2024, there have been 2,223 confirmed cases of cholera in the country. Tragically, 71 people have lost their lives due to this waterborne disease. The ministry has also reported 336 suspected deaths.
The highest number of cholera cases have been confirmed in Manicaland (1045), Harare (663), Mat South (147), Mash West (108), Mat East (106), and Chitungwiza (53). On the other hand, Bulawayo has recorded only three cases, while Mat North has reported just one case. It should be noted that Bulawayo (8) and Matabeleland North (11) have the fewest tests conducted.
Cholera is a serious illness caused by contaminated water or food. It spreads quickly and can lead to severe dehydration and even death if not treated promptly. The ministry is taking this situation seriously and is urging the public to take necessary precautions, such as reporting deaths and limiting eating during burials, to prevent further spread of the disease.
It is important for everyone to be aware of the signs and symptoms of cholera, such as diarrhoea, vomiting, and dehydration, and to seek medical attention if they suspect they or someone they know may be affected. By working together and following the guidance of health workers, the community can help control the spread of cholera and protect each other’s health.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Report All Deaths That Occur In The Community - Ministry Of Health

Four people, among them a pregnant woman from Gwanda, died of cholera early this month at a religious shrine in Beitbridge.
The pregnant woman, who had contracted the disease, went to the shrine to seek help after refusing to be assisted by health officials due to religious beliefs.
According to the Gwanda district cholera situational report released by the Ministry of Health and Child Care (MoHCC) on 13 January, the deceased, including the pregnant woman, were apostolic sect members.
The pregnant woman reportedly complained of a headache and nausea on 29 December 2023 and assumed she was having labour pains. <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200022101/cholera-kills-4-at-apostolic-sect-shrine">Read the report</a>:
<blockquote>
She was taken to a religious shrine in the Beitbridge District in the Mazunga area for assistance in delivery.
While she was there, the birth attendant and custodian of the shrine contracted cholera along with 12 other family members and neighbours. The birth attendant and two males died.
The Beitbridge MoHCC rapid response team (RRT) attended to the outbreak on January 1 and carried out contact tracing and treatment of symptomatic contacts found.
The deceased was initially hidden from the RRT by family members and later identified by other community members. The deceased refused medical attention from the RRT members.
The family then tried to shift her to another religious shrine in the Mberengwa Masase area, however, she died along the way on January 2.
Her death was reported to the police and was placed at the Gwanda Provincial Hospital mortuary pending a post-mortem.
</blockquote>
The family, however, did not disclose that the deceased was a contact of a confirmed cholera death.
On 09 January, the body of the deceased was taken to United Bulawayo Hospitals for a post-mortem and buried on the same day at Jonclyn Resettlement.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Four People Succumb To Cholera At An Apostolic Sect Shrine

South Africa’s Deputy Minister of Health, Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo on Monday, 15 January said two laboratory-confirmed cases of cholera in Limpopo were imported from Zimbabwe.
According to a statement published on the South African Government website yesterday, a 43-year-old male cholera patient from Zimbabwe tested positive and has since been discharged from Musina Hospital.
The other patient, a 27-year-old man, also from Zimbabwe, was still in isolation at Hellen Franz Hospital.
Dhlomo urged members of the public to be vigilant and maintain personal hygiene follwing the confirmation of the two cholera cases. Reads part of the statement:
<blockquote>
The Deputy Minister of Health, Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo urges members of the public to be vigilant and maintain personal hygiene as the country records two laboratory-confirmed cases of cholera in Limpopo.
Both cases are imported from Zimbabwe.
The first case was confirmed in the Musina sub-district in Vhembe District. The 43-year-old male patient tested positive and has since been discharged from Musina Hospital.
The second case is a 27-year-old man, also from Zimbabwe who presented at Hellen Franz Hospital under Capricorn District Municipality, with a history of abdominal cramps, watery diarrhoea and vomiting that started on 11 January 2024.
The patient travelled to Zimbabwe on 9 December 2023 and returned to South Africa on 10 January 2024. His health condition is stable and still in isolation at the hospital.
His contacts were identified, and the local outbreak response team has been activated to conduct further investigations and provide health education to contacts.
The country remains on high alert for possible imported cholera cases from neighbouring Zimbabwe which is currently battling the outbreak of the disease which has so far claimed over 200 lives.
The department in collaboration with the Border Management Authority, has intensified health screening at the Beitbridge border post to mitigate against the imported cholera cases from Zimbabwe.
Deputy Minister Dhlomo thanks these suspected cholera patients for being honest with their travel history and fully cooperating with health officials and appeals to all those with a travel history to cholera outbreak areas to do the same to save lives and prevent further transmission to other people.
</blockquote>
Dhlomo appealed to travellers along N1 from Musina and other parts of the country to avoid using known or suspected contaminated surfaces, especially in public places.
He said members of the public should wash hands thoroughly with soap before handling food or after using the bathroom to prevent possible infection. Reads the statement:
<blockquote>
All people who experience cholera-like symptoms (stomach cramps, diarrhoea, and dehydration and vomiting), with or without a travel history to cholera endemic countries and areas, are also urged to present themselves to the nearest health facilities without delays. Never drink water from unsafe sources such as rivers, dams, or streams, unless boiled or disinfected first.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Two Cholera Cases Detected In Limpopo "Imported From Zimbabwe", Says SA Deputy Health Minister

Two Zimbabwean nationals who recently arrived in South Africa after travelling for year-end festivities back home were admitted at different hospitals in South Africa’s Limpopo Province after they contracted cholera.
Provincial health spokesperson in Limpopo, Thilivhali Muavha said the two patients are men, aged 43 and 27. Muavha said (<a href="https://www.iol.co.za/news/south-africa/cholera-confirmed-in-limpopo-as-two-zimbabwean-nationals-hospitalised-40c9c083-1c3d-4d6c-a959-1504d7ccf7f4">via IOL</a>):
<blockquote>
The Limpopo Department of Health would like to inform the public about two newly confirmed cases of cholera in the province.
The patients, both Zimbabwean men, aged 43 and 27, upon their return from the festivities, presented to Musina and Hellen Franz Hospitals, respectively, with cholera-like symptoms.
</blockquote>
He said when the two men visited the Limpopo health facilities, they were “immediately” admitted and tested. Added Muavha:
<blockquote>
Cholera is a highly infectious and potentially life-threatening disease caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae.
The most common symptoms include severe diarrhoea, vomiting, and dehydration. If left untreated, cholera can lead to severe complications and even death.
</blockquote>
He said when staff at the two institutions became aware of the suspected cholera cases, immediate measures were taken to ensure the patients’ admission and treatment following established protocols. Said Muavha:
<blockquote>
Our medical teams are closely monitoring their condition and providing the necessary medical care to facilitate their recovery.
We would like to emphasise that cholera is primarily transmitted through contaminated food and water.
Therefore, individuals must practice good hygiene, such as washing hands frequently with soap and clean water, especially before eating or preparing food.
</blockquote>
He appealed for calm but urged the public to be vigilant, and to promptly seek medical attention if they or anyone they know experience symptoms consistent with cholera.
Zimbabwe is currently battling a cholera outbreak, with the Health and Child Care Ministry updating over the weekend that the disease had spread to 58 of the country’s 64 districts.
More than more than 17 700 suspected cholera cases and 318 suspected cholera deaths have been recorded.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Cholera: Two Zimbabwean Nationals Hospitalised In SA's Limpopo Province

A disturbing picture went viral on social media platforms this Sunday showing cholera patients in Chiredzi, one of the most underdeveloped districts in Zimbabwe, being treated under a tree with drips or intravenous (IV) infusion dispensers hanging from tree branches.
The “open field hospital” is said to be at Mapanza, near Mukwasine Estates. 
Most of the people who commented on the photo queried why a country such as Zimbabwe, endowed with abundant resources, cannot treat patients with dignity.
<img alt="Image" decoding="async" src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GDy60N7W4AAmMNG?format=jpg&amp;name=medium"/>
President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s spokesperson George Charamba, posting on one of his X accounts dhonzamusoro077, seemed to make fun of critics, bragging that the Government at least provided the medicines for the patients and also pays the health workers’ salaries. He wrote:
<blockquote>
By the way, who bought the life-saving saline fluid? Who employed and meets the salaries of the hard-working staff? The vehicle which ferried them to the affected areas? Kumeso kwenyu mese!
</blockquote>
In another post, Charamba hit out at the opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) which dominates the majority of urban councils in the country, saying the party takes money from residents but cannot provide the barest of services such as collecting garbage.
Charamba blamed the colonial government, which was replaced by the ZANU PF government nearly 44 years ago, for Chiredzi’s underdevelopment. He wrote:
<blockquote>
UNOTONZWA MADUNUNU ETRIPLE C PONTIFICATING ABOUT FIELD INTERVENTIONS BY OUR MEDICAL STAFF IN COLONIALLY NEGLECTED CHIREDZI WHICH IS NOW BEING DEVELOPED; YET THEY HAVE TO WAIT FOR CENTRAL GOVT TO CLEAN GARBAGE FOR WHICH THE SWINDLE RATEPAYERS BY WAY OF LEVIES!
</blockquote>
According to a report, the Zimbabwe Red Cross Society later provided a tent to be used by health personnel for the cholera patients.
<img alt="Image" decoding="async" src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GD0Bh2xXcAAu56M?format=jpg&amp;name=medium"/>
Zimbabwe’s public health service system is in a sorry state after years of underfunding by the State. Hospitals lack basic medicines such as liquid paracetamol while doctors and nurses are poorly-paid.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

In Zimbabwe, Cholera Patients Are Treated Under Trees, Drips Hanging From Branches

Harare City Council officials are attending a workshop in Nyanga at a time cholera has claimed several lives in the city and the Government has given the local authority a 7-day ultimatum to remove vendors from the central business district (CBD).
The workshop will cost US$24 000 funded by ratepayers. It will run between 27 and 29 November 2023.
According to the Town Clerk’s report to the Human Resources and General Purposes Committee, the workshop, dubbed the Zimbabwe Institute of Strategic Thinking Annual Conference will be held at Troutbeck in Nyanga from this Monday to Wednesday. Part of the report reads:
<blockquote>
The following has been recommended to attend the workshop, His Worship the Mayor Cllr L Chitegu, Deputy Mayor Cllr R Muronda, Councilors Cllr C Mande, Cllr E Ruzani, Cllr RM Jakopo, Cllr T Machirori, Cllr F Chabuda and Cllr L Makuwerere, Town Clerk Eng H. A Chisango, Rtd Major M Marara, G Kusangaya, S Chimbetete, B Hlabanu, Drivers L Nyanga, P Mudzambara and Town Clerks Aide and all chairpersons.
The topics to be covered will be as follows, leveraging on indigenous capital base to drive social and economic transformation and possible pathways for a pragmatic approach by 2030.
The role of monetary policy and dynamics towards refined optional currency in Zimbabwe and Refining Zimbabwe’s economic recovery plan.
The travelling dates are as follows 26 and 30 November 2023.
</blockquote>
Harare residents have criticised city fathers for spending thousands of dollars at a workshop in Nyanga instead of channelling the funds towards service provision given that there is a cholera state of emergency in the capital.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Harare City Council Officials Spend US$24 000 At A Workshop Amid Cholera Outbreak

Vendors in Harare have vowed to defy a directive by authorities to vacate the Central Building District (CBD) and the streets they sell their wares from, saying they will only move if the Government creates jobs for them.
This comes after the Government gave the Harare City Council a seven-day ultimatum to remove the vendors out of the city due to rising cholera cases.
One vendor only identified as Varaidzo told <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/give-us-domestic-jobs-at-state-house-vendors-tell-govt-defy-7-day-ultimatum-to-vacate-streets/">NewZimbabwe.com</a> that they cannot leave the CBD because they have to fend for their families. She said:
<blockquote>
We need jobs. There are no jobs in the country. Ngavatipe mabasa kuState House ikoko. Where can we go from here? Most of us are widows and single mothers fending for our kids through vending.
We went to school. If the economy was flourishing, we would be employed somewhere. We are not happy being on these pavements.
Let us join the government officials in their offices. I am sorry we cannot leave the CBD.
</blockquote>
Another vendor who declined to be identified said the Government and the city council were to blame for the cholera outbreak as they are failing to collect rubbish, effectively manage sewage and fail to provide clean water. Said the vendor:
<blockquote>
We have educational certificates under our pillows but we have no jobs. They must show us the doors of companies that are employing people right now. We will go there. How do we take care of our kids?
Council and government must work together to provide services to citizens. We have garbage all over the streets and raw sewage everywhere.
Now we are being accused of fueling cholera in the city. Tell those authorities to put their houses in order because our wares are clean.
</blockquote>
The Harare City Council spokesperson Stanley Gama said that the council held an emergency meeting on Thursday to find ways to deal with the government directive on illegal vending in the CBD.
Meanwhile, Councillor Womberaiishe Nhende responsible for SMSEs at Town House said the council already has designated places for vendors. He said:
<blockquote>
Harare City had plans already in place to deal with city challenges. The City has designated places for vendors but they are coming back to the streets alleging proximity to their customers has been compromised.
This has created this ugly situation. Due to the outbreak that has been declared a national disaster, we have been begging the government to help the city improve on the vendor’s issues. Their livelihood is at stake.
</blockquote>
A state of emergency was recently declared in Harare over the cholera outbreak that has killed more than 150 people across the country.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Harare Vendors Vow To Defy Govt 7-day Ultimatum To Vacate CBD

The Government has given the Harare City Council a seven-day ultimatum to remove traders operating from undesignated spots in order to curb the spread of cholera.
Addressing a post-Cabinet media briefing in Harare this week, the Minister of Health and Child Care Douglas Mombeshora warned the local authority that if it fails to decisively deal with the vendors, the central Government “will move in”. Said Mombeshora:
<blockquote>
So we have had a conversation with the Municipality of Harare authorities to take remedial measures, failure of which we will have to move in as Government, and definitely, we have to remove these illegal vendors because they will cost us lives.
We have to save lives, we have to stop this cholera from spreading so no one should be left doing the wrong thing because we will lose lives.
We gave them a week to take corrective measures, failure of which Government we will move in.
</blockquote>
He said the overcrowding of vendors at illegal places where there are no sanitary facilities has resulted in more cholera hotspots. Said Mombeshora:
<blockquote>
After looking at all factors we came up with that decision having realised that vendors are all over the roads, at shopping centres people are cooking food, selling tomatoes, and vegetables but if you look at it there is no water to clean these commodities and there are no toilets so what is happening from morning till evening when all these vendors are there and they are overcrowded areas.
Designated places have toilets, proper tables and water to wash hands, vegetables and goods, so that is what we want to see taking place in Harare.
</blockquote>
He also said in Harare, there are challenges with water supply, poor refuse disposal and poor sewage reticulation.
Mombeshora said Kuwadzana suburb accounts for 40 percent of cholera cases in Harare.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Govt Gives Harare City Council 7-day Ultimatum To Deal With Vendors

The Bulawayo City Council (BCC) says open-air worshipping around the city is a potential spreader of Cholera as some of the places do not have ablution facilities.
BCC Senior Health Promotion Officer, Sitshengisiwe Siziba said the local authority was engaging the leaders of these churches to raise awareness about the disease.
Addressing journalists at a meeting hosted by the Humanitarian Information Facilitation Center, in conjunction with the Health Communicators Forum, Siziba said the main reason why people contract cholera is because of poor hygiene.
She urged residents to always wash their hands and just like was the case during COVID-19, avoid shaking hands. <a href="https://cite.org.zw/bcc-sounds-alarm-on-open-air-worshipping-as-cholera-fears-rise/">CITE</a> quoted Siziba as saying:
<blockquote>
There are areas in our city where there is a lot of open-air worshipping around the city so we are engaging the leaders of these churches with regards to cholera prevention.
We do know that where there are no ablution facilities, it becomes a major fuel for transmitting diseases.
</blockquote>
She said their department passes information to councillors and members of parliament through online platforms which they then disseminate to the people. Said Siziba:
<blockquote>
We have WhatsApp groups where we engage with councillors and members of parliament. We give them information which they in turn disseminate to their constituencies and wards.
We also have partners that we are working with who come in with non-food items. They supply kits with soap and buckets.
One way of fighting cholera is hygiene and to effectively wash your hands you need soap.
Our observations have been that in most cases where there are cholera outbreaks, hygiene would be compromised that’s why we monitor closely.
</blockquote>
Cholera has claimed over 150 lives countrywide while Bulawayo has recorded three cases and one death.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Cholera Outbreak: Bulawayo City Council Concerned Over Open-air Worshipping

The Harare City Council (HCC) has announced a state of emergency due to the increasing spread of cholera in the city. The Mayor, Councillor Ian Makone, and the City Director of Health, Dr Prosper Chonzi, recently held meetings with residents’ associations to address the situation.
During the meetings, Dr Chonzi stressed the importance of collaboration between residents and the City in order to effectively combat and control the disease. Said the local government authority:
<blockquote>
So far we have 1000 suspected cases in Harare and 100 confirmed cases. Unfortunately, 10 people have succumbed to the disease and there is a need for the residents to be very alert. As council we are treating this as an emergency and every department is working 24/7 to fight the disease.
</blockquote>
<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2023/11/16/zimbabwean-minister-asks-churches-to-pray-for-the-cholera-outbreak-to-end/">Zimbabwe is currently grappling with a cholera outbreak</a>, and the lack of clean water and poor sanitation are identified as major factors contributing to the spread of the disease. Harare, the capital city, has been heavily impacted, with certain suburbs experiencing long-term water shortages. However, some progress has been made in restoring water supplies to certain areas. Suburbs like Budiriro, Glen Norah, Glen View, Kuwadzana, and Rydle Ridge have had their water supplies restored, but other areas, including Tynwald, Bloomingdale, Bluff Hill, Dzivaresekwa, Hatcliffe, Borrowdale, Mt. Pleasant, and Hogerty Hill, continue to face water shortages.
The southern suburbs, supplied by Prince Edward, have access to water, including areas like Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport, Cranborne, Hatfield, parts of Chitungwiza, Mbare, Sunningdale, and Graniteside, according to Harare City Council. The central business district and its surrounding areas also have access to water. However, the eastern suburbs, such as Greendale, Mandara, Mabvuku, Tafara, Zimre Park, and Epworth, are severely affected due to reduced production levels and erratic power supply at the Letombo pump station. Power supply disruptions are also impacting water supplies to the north-eastern suburbs.
Harare residents need 800 million litres (megalitres) of water per day. Unfortunately, the city’s current water capacity is only around 494 megalitres. Water controls transmit as follows: Morton Jaffray to Warren Control (144 megalitres), from Morton Jaffray to Lochinvar/Marimba reservoirs (91 megalitres), from Morton Jaffray to Norton (61.94 megalitres), from Warren Control to Alexandra Park (120 megalitres), from Warren Control to Letombo (22 megalitres), from Prince Edward to Letombo (40.252 megalitres), and from Prince Edward to Chitungwiza (13.748 megalitres). However, due to leaks and pipe bursts in the water distribution system, some of the water gets lost before it reaches its intended destination.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Harare Announces A State Of Emergency As Cholera Spreads In The City

Residents in Harare are threatening to protest due to the ongoing cholera outbreak. They believe that both the local and the central governments have not taken sufficient action to prevent the spread of the disease.
The Ministry of Health and Child Care (MoHCC) has reported that over 140 people have died and at least 7,000 people have been infected. The lack of access to clean water and poor sanitation have been identified as factors contributing to the spread of cholera. Harare has been particularly affected, with some suburbs experiencing water shortages for several years, months and or days. The Combined Harare Residents Association (CHRA) has expressed concern over the rapid spread of the disease. Speaking to <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200019579/harare-residents-plot-protest-over-cholera">NewsDay</a> on the sidelines of the Accountability for Water and Environment Symposium jointly organised by CHRA and Network for Environmental and Climate Justice and Media Institute of Southern Africa (Zimbabwe), CHRA director Reuben Akili said<a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200019579/harare-residents-plot-protest-over-cholera">:</a>
<blockquote>
As CHRA we are very concerned and worried over the situation in terms of water supply in local authority areas, regarding waste management and the management of natural infrastructure such as wetlands.
The challenge we have seen over time is the proliferation of unattended sewerage bursts in local authority areas.
Residents are saying if engagement fails, there is probably no other solution than for them to demonstrate, of course, peacefully as provided for in the Constitution. This is a constitutional issue.
</blockquote>
CHRA is considering taking legal action against the City of Harare and relevant government departments in response to the ongoing cholera outbreak.
Hardlife Mudzingwa, the national coordinator of the Community Water Alliance, expressed concern that Zimbabwe was regressing into a time of medieval diseases. He called on the government and stakeholders to allocate sufficient funds for water and sanitation (WASH) programs, stating that access to clean and safe water was crucial in addressing cholera.
The government has been accused of contributing to the spread of the disease by not providing funds for water treatment. Harare’s mayor, Ian Makone, stated that the council had been waiting for funds from the treasury, highlighting that the government owed over ZW$25 billion for water and other services.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Harare Residents Threaten Protests Over Cholera

The Harare City Council has expressed concern over the rise in the number of cholera cases in the city.
In a statement this Tuesday, the local authority said it recorded 30 confirmed cases of cholera in Kuwadzana and the Crowborough area over the weekend of 10-12 November 2023 including 2 deaths.
The council said that the other highly affected areas are Glen View and Glen Norah.
The local authority noted several factors contributing to the spread of cholera. These are:
<ul>
<li>Drinking of untreated borehole water</li>
<li>Drinking untreated well water</li>
<li>Attending and eating at gatherings</li>
<li>Attending gatherings and shaking hands</li>
<li>The presence of burst sewers in the communities</li>
<li>Consumption of cooked food from unlicensed vendors</li>
</ul>
In order to curb the spread of cholera, the Harare City Council has recommended that residents:
<ul>
<li>Seek early treatment to prevent death. Treatment is free at all council clinics.</li>
<li>Avoid gatherings.</li>
<li>Treat all borehole and well water with water guard or aquatabs before drinking</li>
<li>Avoid food from unlicensed vendors</li>
<li>Report any suspected cholera case or death at the nearest clinic.</li>
</ul>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Two Cholera Deaths Confirmed In Harare

All public gatherings have been banned in Mashonaland Central Province as authorities grapple to contain the cholera outbreak.
In a memo to all District Medical Officers (DMOs) in the province seen by <a href="https://healthtimes.co.zw/2023/11/02/zimcholera-public-gatherings-banned-in-mash-central/">Health Times</a>, Mash Central Provincial Medical Director Dr Clement Chuma said cholera cases have been recorded in Shamva and Centenary. He said:
<blockquote>
The country is currently in a cholera outbreak. The outbreak started in Manicaland but it has now spread to other provinces including Mashonaland Central. In Mashonaland Central, we now have cases in Shamva and Centenary
In an effort to control the outbreak before it spreads, all public gatherings are banned.
You are therefore instructed to engage all your stakeholders and ensure compliance.
</blockquote>
The districts in Mashonaland Central Province are Centenary, Bindura, Mbire, Guruve, Mount Darwin, Rushinga, Shamva, Mazowe, and Muzarabani.
As of 01 November 2023, Mash Central had 138 suspected cholera cases, and 20 have been confirmed.
Two were confirmed to have succumbed to cholera alongside eight suspected deaths.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

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