Cholera has reared its ugly head again as Harare records seven confirmed cases confirmed, an outbreak which has potential to spread like veld fire, according to Harare City Health Director, Dr Prosper Chonzi.
Budiriro has four of the 21 confirmed cases, Glenview two and one from Mount Pleasant Heights.
The latest outbreak should be taken ‘seriously’ to stop it from spreading nationwide.
Also, the nation should be ‘on high alert everywhere even where there are no cases yet’.
To curb the spread of cholera, Dr Chonzi called for good hygiene and sanitation every time and everywhere.“
Cholera is an orally transmitted disease which means a person will only get affected if you eat or drink anything that is contaminated with the Vibrio Cholerae bacteria which causes cholera. It is important to treat all water by boiling or by using aqua tablets so as to denature the bacteria,” said Dr Chonzi.
“Wash your hands before eating and after using the toilet; eat your food while it is hot, avoid gatherings and avoid buying food from any source which is not licensed.”
Communities should play the watchdog role and report to local clinics if they suspect anyone to have cholera to ensure the health sector is aware ‘as quickly as possible’.“
Surveillance is one of the key pillars of response and we want to be able to pick new cases early so if you identify anyone with cholera symptoms please let the health experts know,” said Dr Chonzi.
Vaccinations are available at local clinics for free in the areas that have recorded positive cases.
“Treatment of all diarrheal cases, all abdominal discomfort cases is for free. If you feel like you are at high risk you can get to any nearest clinic and get vaccinated. The medications are there, the aqua tablets and the drips are there,” Dr Chonzi said.
