21 Sep 2018 | 05:32 PM UTC
South Africa: Cholera alert issued on Sep. 17 due to outbreak in Zimbabwe
South African authorities issue a cholera alert on September 17 due to an outbreak in neighboring Zimbabwe
Event
On Monday, September 17, authorities in South Africa issued a cholera alert over an outbreak affecting neighboring Zimbabwe. Healthcare workers have been placed on high alert and deployed to the South Africa-Zimbabwe border. Authorities have urged residents in South Africa's northeastern regions to take precautions against cholera. As of Friday, September 21, no cholera cases have been reported in South Africa.
Context
Cholera is typically spread via infected water supplies and induces acute diarrhea leading to severe dehydration, frequently resulting in death. 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.
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.
