The ManicaPost
Health Reporter
WITH more cholera cases being recorded countrywide, stakeholders are joining hands in collaborative efforts to combat the spread of the disease, with Government and Development Aid from People to People (DAPP) Zimbabwe launching an emergency response programme in Chimanimani.
The district has been declared a cholera hotspot following a rise in recorded cases, with Wards Two, Three and Four being targeted for the prevention initiative.
Speaking during the launch of the programme, Chimanimani District medical officer, Dr Donatas Mugari said Government remains committed to providing effective intervention measures to curb cholera.
He called for a multi-sectorial approach to fighting cholera.
“Manicaland is a cholera hotspot and recorded cases are on the increase. We need more players to come in to complement Government in efforts to curb the spread of the disease,” sadi Dr Mugari.
Speaking at the same occasion, DAPP programmes director Ruth Makumbe said comprehensive responses are crucial in fighting cholera.
“The Anticipatory Action for Cholera Outbreak Prevention programme, which is supported by the Danish Emergency Relief Fund (DERF) and Civil Society in Development (CISU) through Humana People to People UFF Denmark, aims to contribute to the prevention of full blown cholera in Wards Two, Three and Four of Chimanimani District.”
“Over the next six months, DAPP will work closely with the Ministry of Health and Child Care, local health personnel and village action committees. This will help to prevent and control cholera transmission while also improving access to clean water for domestic use in the targeted wards. We are confident that through this programme we will see a reduction in cholera-related infections and deaths,” she said.
Cholera is an acute waterborne diarrheal disease that is preventable if people practice good hygiene and have access to clean and safe water as well as sanitation.
However, the disease can kill within hours if left untreated.
