Most cholera cases recorded in Bulawayo are imported from other parts of the country by residents visiting affected areas, according to a Bulawayo City Council official.
Ward 23 councillor Ntombizodwa Khumalo, the Health, Housing and Education Committee chairperson spoke about Bulawayo’s cholera situation on Asakhe Online’s Breakfast Club show, on Friday.
Khumalo said the local authority has employed various strategies to raise awareness among residents and encourage their participation in fighting the pandemic.
According to the latest situational report from the health ministry as of February 1, 2024, a cumulative total of 22 105 suspected cholera cases, 71 laboratory-confirmed deaths, 421 suspected cholera deaths, and 2 317 laboratory-confirmed cases were reported.
Of these cases, Bulawayo has recorded 26 cumulative cases and one death.
“We haven’t had extreme cases of cholera in our city,” she said. “Most recorded cases are imported. You’ll hear that the patient travelled to other areas and came back sick. It’s very rare to have cases originating within our city.”
“We urge all residents to be vigilant against the pandemic. If they experience any cholera-like symptoms, they must visit the nearest clinic for medical assistance. Symptoms may include diarrhoea three to four times a day, often whitish. Cholera-causing bacteria are mainly found in faeces, so thorough handwashing after using the toilet is crucial.”
Khumalo said the local authority is conducting radio campaigns to educate residents about the pandemic, and councillors are addressing the public at all gatherings they attend.
“Community health nurses are also working hard to spread the word about cholera. They talk to people at clinics about the importance of hygiene to protect themselves,” Councilor Khumalo said.
Councilor Khumalo highlighted that the city is still under the 120-hour water-shedding schedule, so residents must ensure they regularly change and wash their water storage containers.
“We’re still on the 120-hour water shedding schedule,” she said. “We must ensure our water storage containers are clean. When water is reconnected, residents should empty and wash their containers and refill them with fresh water.”
“Those who buy fruits must wash them thoroughly before consumption. If possible, we encourage them to buy fruits and wash them at home with clean and safe water from trusted sources. We also urge people to eat warm, thoroughly cooked food and wash their hands frequently.”
