The cholera outbreak in Zimbabwe continues to spread with the confirmation of 2 additional deaths and 38 new suspected cases across the country over the last day.
According to the Ministry of Health’s latest situational report, both cholera fatalities occurred in Manicaland province. Of the new suspected cases, 28 were recorded in Harare and 10 in Manicaland.
To date, 17 districts have been designated as cholera hotspots: Buhera, Chegutu, Chikomba, Chimanimani, Chipinge, Chitungwiza, Chiredzi, Harare, Gokwe North, Marondera, Mazowe, Shamva, Mutare, Murehwa, Mwenezi, Seke and Wedza.
The outbreak began on February 12 in Chegutu town, Mashonaland West Province, and has since spread to 9 of Zimbabwe’s 10 provinces. In total since the start of 2023, health officials have recorded 1,649 suspected cholera cases, 11 laboratory confirmed deaths, 33 suspected cholera fatalities and 412 laboratory confirmed cases.
Cholera is an acute intestinal infection caused by ingesting contaminated food or water. It can kill within hours if left untreated. Zimbabwe is currently facing multiple crises including shortages of clean water, medicine, fuel and food – conditions that allow cholera to spread rapidly. The government is reminding citizens to boil or treat drinking water and practice proper hygiene.
