THE number of confirmed Cholera cases in Nakonde, Muchinga Province has gone up to 13, after the Ministry of Health announced that three cases were recorded yesterday.
In a statement, acting Minister of Health, Douglas Syakalima shared that the affected individuals include seven males and six females.
“Among these, two patients were discharged yesterday from the Nakonde Urban Cholera Treatment Center, while others remain under care,” Syakalima revealed.
Three days ago, Government announced the outbreak of Cholera in Nakonde and expressed its commitment to mitigating the spread.
Prolonged droughts and warmer temperatures have been cited to create conditions that are sustaining cholera pathogens and increasing exposure to these infectious agents.
The minister shared that increased frequency of natural disasters, such as storms and flash floods, has heightened the risk of water contamination, leading to the spread of diarrheal diseases like cholera.
He said floodwaters can carry sewage into boreholes, natural water bodies, and other water sources, exacerbating transmission risks.
“The youngest [Cholera] patient is eight years old, and the oldest is 52, with all cases originating from Ntindi and Katozi residential areas,” Syakalima said.
“No deaths have been recorded so far.”
Syakalima said Government is actively addressing the current cholera outbreak in Nakonde to safeguarding the health and well-being of citizens.
“In Nakonde, we are preparing to vaccinate 197,000 individuals in high-risk communities. This effort is being carried out in collaboration with WHO, Gavi, and other partners, utilising Zambia’s existing stock of two million cholera vaccine doses, which we are strategically reallocating to address the outbreak in the region.”
“While we are saddened by this development, we are hopeful for the recovery of those affected. Our visit to the treatment center yesterday (Saturday) confirmed that patients are receiving appropriate care and are in stable condition,” said Syakalima.
Government revealed implementing other measures to enhance preparedness and mitigate the spread of cholera, including: Strengthening cross-border collaboration, prioritising community-centered preparedness and response strategies.
Syakalima also mentioned accelerating local production and access to cholera vaccines, and
ensuring sustained political commitment supported by adequate funding.
“Addressing the root causes of cholera outbreaks, such as inadequate water and sanitation infrastructure, urbanisation, and the impacts of climate change, remains critical. To this end, we are reviewing our national climate adaptation plans using the One Health Approach,” said Syakalima.
By Moses Makwaya
Kalemba December 30, 2024
