Online Reporter
Alicia Kadzviti-Herald Reporter
THE Ministry of Health and Child Care has issued a cholera alert following an increased risk of outbreaks triggered by heavy rains and recurrent flooding across the country.
In a statement, the Ministry warned that the prevailing wet conditions have worsened the likelihood of water and food contamination, creating a conducive environment for the spread of the disease.
Cholera is an acute diarrhoeal illness transmitted through contaminated food or water and, if not treated promptly, can result in severe dehydration and death within a short period.
The ministry urged members of the public to take precautionary measures to reduce the risk of infection, including drinking only safe, treated or boiled water and washing hands regularly with soap and clean running water or using alcohol-based sanitisers.
People have also been advised to cook food thoroughly and eat it while hot, buy food from approved and certified sources, and wash fruits and vegetables with clean water before consumption.
The notice further emphasised the importance of using safe sanitation facilities and maintaining good personal and environmental hygiene at all times.
“The public is strongly advised to remain vigilant, strictly adhere to these preventive measures, and promptly visit the nearest health facility if symptoms occur,” read the statement.
