Cholera claims 66 lives in December
SIXTY-SIX people have died of cholera this month, which represents an increase from the 49 who succumbed to the water-borne disease in November.
However, there was a marginal decline in the number of suspected new infections from 3 731 in November to 3 699 this month.
Health authorities recorded 196 new infections on Thursday.
Experts say weak public hygiene practices, coupled with incessant rains, particularly in Harare over the festive season, were behind the sustained high number of new infections.
Acting Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health and Child Care Dr Maxwell Hove said there were pervasive unhygienic practices during the holidays.
“Cholera is a hygiene-related disease, meaning the affected areas have inadequate sanitation in place, which results in contamination of food,” he said.
“It also means our people were not practising proper public hygiene because the (cholera) bacteria only gets into your mouth when your hands are contaminated.
“People are eating food that is contaminated by faecal material and they are also drinking water that is contaminated.”
Dr Hove emphasised the importance of practising good public hygiene.
“Many affected areas, especially those impacted by flooding, lack proper water infrastructure,” he said.
“As a result, residents often rely on wells and, in some instances, boreholes.
“Given the heavy rains and inadequate sewer systems, there is significant sewage overflow, contaminating both their water sources and general water supply.
“This contamination poses a high risk of cholera outbreaks.”
The Government, he said, was working tirelessly to combat the outbreak.
“Efforts are focused on improving public awareness regarding proper hygiene practices, including the importance of handwashing and use of clean water sources,” he said.
“Additionally, the authorities are intensifying efforts to provide adequate healthcare and access to clean water and sanitation facilities in affected areas.”
Chitungwiza, Buhera and Harare have recorded the highest number of suspected cholera cases over the last two months, accounting for 4 200 cases.
There were 2 585 cases recorded in Harare over that period, while Buhera and Chitungwiza had 843 and 800 cases, respectively.
Public health expert and University of Zimbabwe lecturer Dr Johannes Marisa said the festive season played a significant role in increasing new infections.
“Firstly, the heavy rains and subsequent water pollution have contaminated water bodies, increasing the risk of cholera transmission,” said Dr Marisa.
“The festive season has resulted in crowded gatherings, open-air barbecues and unhygienic cooking and eating practices, all of which have contributed to the surge in cholera cases in December.”
He said there was a need for heightened public awareness campaigns and adherence to hygienic practices.
“By promoting behaviour change and ensuring proper sanitation, the risk of cholera transmission can be significantly reduced, safeguarding public health during this joyous but potentially perilous time,” he added.