Online Reporter
Conrad Mupesa
Mashonaland West Bureau
MASHONALAND West Province has recorded 14 730 cumulative malaria cases since the beginning of the year, with the disease claiming 56 lives as health authorities intensify efforts to contain the outbreak.
According to the latest provincial malaria situation report released on June 9, the province recorded 52 new cases within 24 hours, with Hurungwe District accounting for the highest number at 25 cases.
Makonde recorded 16 cases, while Sanyati and Zvimba reported seven and four cases, respectively.
Three new deaths were recorded during the reporting period, one each from Hurungwe, Makonde and Sanyati districts, bringing the cumulative death toll to 56.
The province’s overall case fatality rate now stands at 0,38 percent.
Health officials said malaria incidence remains below one case per 1 000 people across the province. Kariba, Hurungwe, Makonde and Sanyati districts remain under malaria control programmes, while Mhondoro-Ngezi, Chegutu and Zvimba are operating under malaria elimination initiatives.
To curb the spread of the disease, authorities have intensified community awareness campaigns through programmes aired on Zimpapers radio station Platinum FM, village health education sessions and mobile outreach activities targeting vulnerable communities across the province.
Larviciding operations have also been stepped up in malaria hotspots, with biolarvicides pre-positioned at health facilities to ensure rapid response.
Meanwhile, the distribution of insecticide-treated mosquito nets continues across affected districts, with mass distribution already completed in targeted wards in Kariba District.
Health authorities have urged residents to seek early treatment when malaria symptoms appear and to consistently use mosquito nets as part of efforts to reduce infections and prevent further loss of life.
