09 Jan 2018 | 10:05 AM UTC
Zambia: Over 2200 cholera cases reported amid ongoing outbreak Jan. 6 /update 3
Over 2200 cases of cholera reported in ongoing outbreak in Zambia, including 50 associated deaths, as of January 6; additional cases likely to be reported in the coming weeks
Event
An outbreak of cholera in Zambia has reportedly infected over 2200 people and accounted for more than 50 associated deaths as of Saturday, January 6. According to the US Embassy in Lusaka, the areas most acutely affected by the outbreak include several areas in Lusaka, such as Chipata, Kanyama, Chawama, Bauleni, Matero, Chilenje, and Chelston. In response, the Zambian Ministry of Health has closed several restaurants, buried shallow wells, and expanded access to potable water in Lusaka. The University of Zambia was closed on Friday, January 5, amid the ongoing outbreak; it is unclear when the university is expected to resume operations. Additional cases of cholera are expected to be reported in Lusaka and other regions of Zambia in the coming weeks.
Context
On December 29, Zambian President Edgar Lungu ordered the Zambian Defense Force to assist in containing the ongoing outbreak of cholera in the capital of Lusaka.
In a bid to contain the spread of the disease, health officials have launched campaigns to clean public areas and raise awareness concerning proper water sanitation. In addition, authorities have banned the sale of street food as a mitigating measure. The World Health Organization (WHO) anticipates the outbreak may spread as the rainy season progresses.
Cholera is an infectious disease caused by Vibrio cholerae bacteria that can induce acute diarrhea. The risk of death is greatest among people with compromised immune systems, such as malnourished children or those living with HIV. However, even among healthy adults, cholera can be fatal within a matter of hours. There are frequent outbreaks of cholera in Zambia during the rainy season due to contaminated water, poor sanitation, and overcrowded slums. Zambia's worst cholera outbreak in 2010 affected 4500 people and resulted in 120 deaths.
Advice
To reduce the risk of contracting cholera, wash hands regularly, drink only bottled or purified water, and avoid eating raw or undercooked foods. Individuals who believe they may have contracted cholera should seek immediate medical attention.
