Online Reporter
Tendai Gukutikwa
Health Reporter
MANICALAND Province has been placed on high alert after two confirmed cholera cases were recorded, prompting health authorities to intensify surveillance and urge residents to strictly observe hygiene practices to curb further spread.
The Civil Protection Unit (CPU) confirmed that two of the three reported cases tested positive for cholera, while one remains under investigation.
The confirmed cases involve a mother and child currently receiving treatment at Elim Clinic in Nyanga.
A third suspected case has been reported at Chipangayi Clinic in Chipinge District and is under close monitoring.
CPU chairman for Manicaland, Mr John Misi, said rapid response mechanisms have already been activated.
“Three cholera cases, two confirmed, have been recorded in the province—a mother and child in Nyanga, and one suspected case in Chipinge. We are urging everyone to be on alert, wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly, and practice regular handwashing,” he said.
Following detection of the cases, response teams have heightened interventions in affected areas, focusing on community education, disease surveillance, and reinforcing hygiene practices.
“Health officials are conducting awareness campaigns and closely monitoring the situation to ensure it does not spread. We are emphasising safe water, proper sanitation, and hygiene at household level,” added Mr Misi.
He urged residents to seek medical attention immediately if they experience symptoms such as persistent diarrhoea and vomiting, stressing that vigilance is critical.
“Cholera spreads quickly, but it is preventable and treatable if we act early. We call upon everyone in Manicaland to take this matter seriously, maintain hygiene, and report symptoms promptly,” he said.
The City of Mutare has intensified its alert systems as the rainy season heightens the risk of waterborne diseases, city spokesperson Mr Charles Sadondo has confirmed.
“As a city, we are on high alert for cholera, especially during this rainy season when the disease is more likely to spread. We urge residents to maintain good hygiene and consume clean, safe food and water. Cholera spreads through contaminated food and water, so vigilance is key,” he said.
Mr Sadondo urged residents experiencing cholera-like symptoms to seek medical attention immediately.
“If you have symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhoea, report to the nearest clinic without delay. Avoid using public transport when ill, as this can spread the disease further,” he cautioned.
He emphasised the importance of prevention at household and community levels.
“Always wash your hands with running water. Wash fruits and vegetables before consuming them. Take food while it is still hot and ensure it is properly cooked. Let us observe all these measures to better protect ourselves from cholera,” he said.
He stressed that prevention remains the most effective weapon against cholera.
“Residents are advised to drink water from safe sources or treat water by boiling, chlorination or using approved purification tablets. Proper disposal of waste, use of sanitary toilets and avoiding open defecation are also critical in preventing contamination of water supplies. Handwashing with soap and clean running water, especially after using the toilet and before handling food, significantly reduces the risk of infection.
“Food should be thoroughly cooked and eaten while still hot. Raw or undercooked seafood and food sold in unsanitary conditions should be avoided during this period of heightened alert,” he said.
Cholera is an acute diarrhoeal disease caused by infection of the intestine with vibrio cholerae.
It spreads mainly through contaminated water and food, particularly in areas with poor sanitation and limited access to clean drinking water.
The disease can spread rapidly, especially during the rainy season when flooding contaminates water sources.
