01 Mar 2024 | 10:41 AM UTC
Tanzania: Elevated cholera activity reported in multiple areas in February
Elevated cholera activity reported in multiple areas in Tanzania in February. Use food and water precautions.
Health authorities have reported elevated cholera activity in multiple areas in Tanzania, with a total of 1,038 cholera cases reported Jan. 1-Feb. 12. This is compared to the 82 cases reported June 1-April 30, 2023. Regions reporting elevated disease activity include Dodoma, Kagera, Katavi, Manyara, Mara, Morogoro, Mwanza, Shinyanga, Simiyu, and Tabora. Local health officials have implemented multiple outbreak response measures, including strengthening disease surveillance, enhancing community engagement, and disseminating risk communication on cholera to the public. This report represents the most complete data available as of March 1.
Consult a travel medicine provider regarding cholera vaccination before traveling to the country. Practice strict food and water precautions. Seek immediate medical attention if symptoms develop within a week of being in areas of high cholera transmission.
The risk of cholera infection exists in Tanzania, with the country being prone to frequent cholera outbreaks. The majority of reported cases are concentrated in rural areas. Health authorities reported roughly 1,070 cholera cases in Tanzania in 2023, 359 cases in 2022, 54 cases in 2021, and no cases in 2020.
Cholera is transmitted directly through food or water contaminated with fecal material from an infected person. Most infected people develop no symptoms or only mild diarrhea. However, approximately one in 10 infected people develop severe cholera, which causes symptoms including profuse, watery diarrhea, vomiting, rapid heart rate, low blood pressure, muscle cramps, restlessness, or irritability. Symptoms typically appear two or three days after exposure but can develop up to five days after exposure. Individuals with severe cholera can develop acute renal failure, severe electrolyte imbalances, and coma. If left untreated, these can lead to shock and rapid death.
