HARARE – Zimbabwe has confirmed two cases of cholera in Chegutu amid fears of a repeat of the devastating outbreak witnessed past few years.

In a statement, the Ministry of Health and Child Care said the cholera cases could have been imported from neighbouring countries.

“On the 15th of February 2023, Zimbabwe confirmed a case of cholera in Chegutu town, Mashonaland West Province, having presented with watery diarrhoea and vomiting on the 12th of February 2023,” said the ministry.

“On the 17th of February 2023, a second case was reported, again in Chegutu town and investigations are underway.

“The first confirmed case has since recovered. In view of the above, the Ministry would like to remind the public of the spread of diarrhoeal and other enteric diseases during the rainy season.”

Cholera cases have been reported in neighbouring Malawi, Zambia and Mozambique.

The ministry urged locals to be on high alert for the dreaded diarrheal diseases.

“To date, over 43 000 cases and 1 400 deaths have been reported in the region since January 2023.

“Due to the high human traffic across our borders, there is a high risk of importation of cases into the country especially considering that Zimbabwe is a transit route for most SADC countries.

“The public are therefore advised to be on the alert for symptoms of watery diarrhoea amongst travellers from Malawi, Mozambique and Zambia and alert their nearest health facilities for treatment,” the ministry said.

Authorities further called on citizens to drink clan water as well as practice hygiene in the wake of the scare.

“For prevention of cholera people are advised to make sure you drink and use safe water and boil it at all times, practice hygiene at all times including washing hands before eating, after visiting the toilet and desist from eating unhygienic prepared food, use proper latrines or other sanitation systems, cook food well, keep it covered and eat it hot.

“In cases where cholera is suspected, the ministry advised the public to visit the nearest health facility for prompt treatment.

“If one presents with watery diarrhea, immediately report to the nearest health facility or call the Ministry’s Public Health Emergency Operations Centre toll free number 2019 for assistance,” the ministry said.

In 2018, at least 4 500 cholera deaths were recorded in Zimbabwe.