Mozambique: Cholera outbreak ongoing in Cabo Delgado province as of April 3

Event

An outbreak of cholera is ongoing in Cabo Delgado province as of Friday, April 3. Health officials have reported at least 313 confirmed cases and 13 associated deaths nationwide. The most affected areas include Mocimboa da Praia, Macomia, and Ibo.

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

Individuals in Mozambique are advised to take preventative measures against the spread of disease, particularly cholera (e.g. drink bottled water, consume thoroughly cooked food, take vaccinations, etc.) and malaria (e.g. sleep with mosquito nets, take malaria medication, wear protective clothing during nighttime and dusk hours, etc.).