Cholera outbreak strikes Malawi: One death, 26 cases confirmed in Machinga, Zomba

One person has died while 26 others are under treatment following cholera outbreaks in Malawi’s eastern districts of Machinga and Zomba, the Ministry of Health has said.

By December 25, 2015, according to Secretary for Health, Dr McPhil Magwira,  Machinga recorded a cumulative total of 19 cholera cases and one death while Zomba reported 7 cases and no death.

Magwira also said in statement that all the reported cholera cases are from Lake Chilwa area.

He said they are doing everything possible to control the cholera outbreak and claimed health workers in all the health facilities are ready to help and treat any member of the community.

“We call upon every person that they should go to the nearest hospital or health facility early if they get sick or develop diarrhoea.

“Medical supplies for cholera treatment are available in all health facilities. Chlorine for water treatment is also being distributed in the communities by Health Surveillance Assistants,” he said.

Magwira also called on the general public to practice what he called personal hygiene measures at all times.

According to him, cholera can be prevented by proper use of latrines; washing hands with soap after visiting the toilet, before handling food, before eating food and after changing babies nappies; drinking or using safe treated water (or boiled water) all the time and practising food hygiene.

He further reminded public to always wash fruits such as mangos before eating them.

There is high level of cholera content around Lake Chilwa because people reportedly defecates there and also use the same water for drinking.

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