Online Reporter
Dr Tendai Zuze
Health Matters
JUST when many of us thought cholera was behind us, the disease has once again made an unwelcome return to Manicaland.
Health authorities have reported more than 20 cases in our province in recent weeks, with at least one death already recorded.
While these numbers may seem small, cholera can spread very quickly if communities let their guard down.
Cholera is an infection of the intestines caused by bacteria that are usually spread through contaminated water or food. It thrives in areas where sanitation is poor and where clean drinking water is not always available. The rainy season often increases the risk, but outbreaks can occur at any time when hygiene standards slip.
The most common symptom of cholera is sudden, severe watery diarrhoea. Patients may also experience vomiting, stomach cramps and rapid dehydration. Because the body loses large amounts of fluid in a short period of time, affected individuals can become dangerously weak within hours.
Signs of dehydration include extreme thirst, dizziness, sunken eyes, dry mouth, reduced urine output and unusual sleepiness. In severe cases, cholera can be fatal if treatment is delayed.
The good news is that cholera is both preventable and treatable. The most important thing is to seek medical attention early if symptoms develop. Waiting at home and hoping the diarrhoea will stop on its own can be dangerous, especially for children, the elderly and people with underlying medical conditions.
Simple preventative measures remain our best defence.
Drink water from safe sources whenever possible.
If you are unsure about the safety of your water, boil it, chlorinate it or use another approved treatment method before drinking. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and clean water after using the toilet, before preparing food and before eating. Fruits and vegetables should be washed properly, and food should be cooked thoroughly and eaten while still hot.
Families should also ensure that toilets and latrines are used properly and that waste is disposed of safely. Open defecation remains a major risk factor for the spread of cholera and other diarrhoeal diseases. Communities should report burst sewer pipes, contaminated water sources and other sanitation problems to local authorities as soon as they are identified.
If someone develops diarrhoea, one of the most important first aid measures is to start replacing lost fluids immediately. Oral Rehydration Solution (one litre clean water, six level teaspoons of sugar and half a teaspoon of salt) is ideal, but even just clean water can help while medical attention is being sought. The sooner dehydration is corrected, the better the outcome.
It is also important to remember that not every episode of diarrhoea is cholera.
However, during an outbreak, any severe watery diarrhoea should be treated seriously until proven otherwise.
The return of cholera serves as a reminder that diseases we have seen before can quickly return if we become complacent.
By practising good hygiene, ensuring access to safe water and seeking treatment early when symptoms develop, we can help prevent further illness and deaths in our communities.
As Manicaland responds to these new cases, vigilance from every household will be just as important as the efforts of healthcare workers.
Cholera is preventable, treatable and beatable, but only if we all play our part.
For more on cholera prevention, contact [email protected]
