Zimbabwe: Authorities declare cholera emergency in Harare September 11 /update 1

Event

An ongoing cholera outbreak in Harare, first reported on Friday, September 7, has left at least 20 people dead as of Tuesday, September 11. According to health officials, at least 2000 people have been infected throughout the city. On Tuesday, authorities in Harare issued a cholera emergency, banning the sale of meat and fish in markets and suspending classes in the Budiriro and Glenview neighborhoods. The outbreak has reportedly been attributed to individuals drinking water from a borehole contaminated by a leaking sewer pipe. The further spread of the outbreak is to be anticipated in the near-term.

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.