Zimbabwe’s capital, Harare, is under a state of emergency due to a cholera outbreak that has claimed many lives and led to over 7,000 suspected cases.
Mayor Ian Makone declared the emergency, highlighting the severity of the situation, reminiscent of a deadly 2008 outbreak where thousands died.
The city is grappling with the spread of cholera, seeking urgent aid for containment and safe water supply, stating the current assistance is insufficient.
Health facilities are overwhelmed, lacking staff and resources to manage the high influx of patients, as reported by the International Federation of the Red Cross (IFRC).
The outbreak is primarily concentrated in Harare’s Kuwadzana suburb, accounting for nearly half of the reported cases.
Cholera, caused by consuming contaminated food or water, is posing a significant health threat.
Comparing the current situation to the 2008 crisis, the mayor emphasized the severity and resurgence of the outbreak.
Back then, the cholera epidemic resulted in thousands of deaths and widespread infections, leading to a breakdown of essential services and eventually prompting political action.
Zimbabwe faces a resurgence of the disease, with over 7,000 suspected cases, 50 confirmed deaths, and hospitals handling a growing number of patients.
The health ministry is implementing measures, including the removal of street food vendors and providing safe water, to combat the outbreak’s spread.
The IFRC warns that the outbreak, affecting multiple districts and provinces, could cross borders.
Neighboring countries like Malawi, South Africa, and Mozambique have experienced cholera outbreaks previously, highlighting the potential regional impact of the current situation.
Source-BBC
