The cholera outbreak that hit Zambia’s Lusaka region in October has shown no sign of abating. To date, over 2 000 cases have been reported, and 51 resultant deaths, of which 48 were in Lusaka alone. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has noted an increase in transmission as the country enters its rainy season.
While there has not been a ban on travel into or out of the region, WHO, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, has issued warnings to people to avoid raw or ready-to-eat foods, and to steer clear of any untreated water sources. The government has issued a directive banning large public gatherings, and has gone as far as postponing the opening of schools until at least January 30.
WHO is, however, working with the government and other relevant parties to control the outbreak and has recommended proper and timely case management at its local incident command posts. These centres can be found in Chawama, Chipata, Kanyama, Matero, Chelstone, and Chilenje. Each post is led by a public health specialist. Vaccines have been ordered by the Zambian government and will soon be made available.
According to WHO, cholera is spread predominantly by contamination of food and water, and is closely linked to poor sanitation and lack of potable water.
