Online Reporter
Josephine Nyamwanza
Correspondent
MUTARE urban has reported 21 new malaria cases this month, following persistent heavy rains and recurrent flooding across the province.
The cases were recorded at several municipal health facilities, with Hobhouse Clinic reporting the highest number (five), followed by Chikanga and Sakubva clinics (four each).
Dangamvura Clinic registered three cases, while Gimboki Clinic reported two. Fern Valley and City clinics recorded one and two cases, respectively.
Health authorities confirmed that no deaths have been recorded, crediting comprehensive and strategic interventions put in place to contain the outbreak.
The city spokesperson, Mr Charles Sadondo, attributed the new infections to flooding-induced contamination of water sources, overcrowded living conditions, and poor sanitation practices in high-density suburbs.
Residents are being urged to remain vigilant, uphold strict hygiene standards, and take preventive measures to curb further spread of the disease.
“The recent heavy rains have led to flooding in several residential areas, resulting in the contamination of shallow wells, boreholes and other water sources. In some cases, burst sewer lines have mixed with floodwater, exposing residents to serious health risks,” said Mr Sadondo.
Mr Sadondo urged residents to take responsibility for preventing further spread of the disease by observing basic hygiene and sanitation practices.
“We are appealing to residents to avoid using untreated water, to boil or chlorinate water before drinking, and to practise regular handwashing with soap. Residents should also ensure proper disposal of refuse and avoid open defecation, especially during this rainy season,” he said.
He said the local authority, working in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Child Care, has intensified health education campaigns, water quality monitoring and environmental health inspections in affected suburbs.
“As council, we have deployed environmental health officers on the ground to monitor water sources, disinfect contaminated areas, and raise awareness within communities. We are also working to repair damaged sewer infrastructure and ensure refuse is collected regularly,” said Mr Sadondo.
He noted that Sakubva, Chikanga, Dangamvura, Hobhouse and Gimboki are among the suburbs that record malaria, cholera and diarrhoeal disease cases almost every rainy season, owing to high population density, ageing sewer systems and limited access to safe water in some sections.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Health and Child Care has issued a nationwide alert, warning of a heightened risk of cholera outbreaks due to ongoing rains and flooding.
The ministry’s spokesperson, Mr Donald Mujiri, urged communities across the country to remain vigilant and to seek medical help early.
“Flooding compromises water and sanitation systems, increasing the risk of waterborne diseases such as cholera. As a ministry, we are urging all Zimbabweans to strictly observe preventive measures and to report suspected cases immediately,” said Mr Mujiri.
He emphasised that early detection and prompt treatment are critical in reducing deaths linked to cholera.
“Anyone experiencing symptoms such as watery diarrhoea, vomiting or signs of dehydration must seek medical attention immediately. Cholera is treatable if managed early, but delays can be fatal,” he said.
Mr Mujiri said the ministry has activated surveillance and rapid response teams across all provinces to detect and contain outbreaks swiftly.
“We have placed our disease surveillance teams on high alert, strengthened health facility preparedness, and are ensuring the availability of essential supplies such as oral rehydration salts, intravenous fluids and water treatment chemicals,” he said.
He added that the ministry is also working with local authorities and development partners to scale up water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) interventions, particularly in high-risk communities.
Cholera is a highly infectious waterborne disease caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae.
It is transmitted through the consumption of contaminated water or food, often in areas with inadequate sanitation and unsafe water supplies.
The disease can cause severe dehydration within a short period if not treated promptly.
Common symptoms include sudden onset of profuse watery diarrhoea, often described as “rice-water” stools, vomiting, muscle cramps, extreme thirst and rapid loss of body fluids. In severe cases, untreated cholera can lead to shock and death within hours.
ENDS.
