Cholera outbreak reported in Kasungu after month-long hiatus

Health officials in Kasungu district have reported a recent outbreak of cholera after a month-long period without any reported cases a development which has raised concerns among local residents and health authorities, who established that they do not have vaccine for the disease.

Kasungu District Health office Spokesperson, Catherine Yoweli said the office is outsourcing the vaccine from other districts and soon people will be able to access it and so far seven cases have been recorded at the Boma, Santhe and Kaluluma.

Yoweli said About 243,000 people in Kasungu were earlier vaccinated against cholera out of a population of a million people in the district.

She said the office in partnership with other stakeholders are intensifying management, distribution of Chlorine and awareness messages.

Cholera is an acute diarrheal infection caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae, it spreads through contaminated water and food, so proper sanitation and hygiene practices are crucial in preventing its spread.

The district health department have activated emergency response team and have begun an active case search and community awareness campaigns.

The health department also urged residents to seek medical attention immediately if they experience symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, and dehydration, and to practice good hygiene to prevent the spread of the disease.