Zimbabwe is facing another cholera outbreak, just three months after being declared cholera-free. The latest outbreak has reported 70 suspected cases and one death in Kariba District, Mashonaland West Province, since early November. This resurgence is not an isolated incident, as cholera remains a persistent issue in Zimbabwe.

The previous cholera outbreak in Zimbabwe began in February 2022 and lasted 18 months, claiming over 700 lives. The Ministry of Health and Child Care, with support from organizations, implemented multi-faceted interventions to contain the outbreak. These efforts included vaccination campaigns. Despite these efforts, the country’s inadequate water and sanitation infrastructure remain significant challenges in preventing future outbreaks.

Health officials are taking swift action to combat the current outbreak. Dr. Godfrey Muza, Kariba District Medical Officer, confirmed the setup of cholera equipment camps and oral rehydration points within affected villages. Local, regional, and international partners, including Medecins Sans Frontieres and UNICEF, are collaborating to manage the crisis.