By Phillipa Jaja
Matabeleland remains the only province unaffected by the cholera outbreak following its breakout in Midlands which was previously unaffected before.
The most recent 6 suspected cases were reported in Midlands Province according to yesterday’s post cabinet briefing.
The worst affected provinces are Matabeleland South which recorded 186 cases; and Manicaland with 152 cases.
“The nation is being informed that as of 23 April 2023, Zimbabwe’s cumulative suspected cases had reached 536, with 503 recoveries and 3 deaths.
“Nine out of the country’s ten provinces have reported suspected cases, with only Matabeleland North Province still unaffected by the outbreak. The most recent 6 suspected cases were reported in Midlands Province.”
Fourteen (14) African countries have now reported cholera outbreaks since the beginning of this year.
A cumulative 160 756 suspected cholera cases and 3 288 deaths have been recorded, reflecting a Case Fatality Rate of 2.1% as of 4 April 2023.
This has prompted a national cholera risk assessment currently ongoing in all provinces in order to determine the targeting of oral cholera vaccination with active surveillance ongoing at points of entry and exit, while water and sanitation provision is being intensified in communities at high risk.