The Ministry of Health in Malawi announced that the nation has documented 47 cases of cholera, resulting in two fatalities, since the commencement of the 2023-24 rainy season. Minister of Health Khumbize Kandodo Chiponda delivered this concerning information during a press briefing held in Lilongwe.
Despite the sporadic cases emerging with the onset of the rains, Chiponda emphasized that cholera persists as a public health emergency. Following the lifting of the public health emergency status in August 2023, Malawi experienced only isolated instances and minimal fatalities. From November 1, 2023, marking the commencement of the new season for cholera surveillance, prevention, and control, to January 2, 2024, a total of 47 cholera cases, including two deaths, were reported across nine health districts.
Chiponda underscored the current outbreak’s low and sporadic nature, highlighting a significant improvement compared to the same period last year. Encouragingly, no cholera patients are currently undergoing treatment in public health care centers. The Minister stressed the importance of maintaining good hygiene practices and adhering to traditional disease prevention methods.
Expressing the need for collective action, Chiponda called upon partners to join forces with the Ministry to address various sectors, ensuring the availability of adequate resources to control cholera in the country. The Minister’s plea extended beyond governmental boundaries, urging the general public to actively participate in preventing the disease.
Assuring Malawians of the government’s unwavering commitment, Chiponda reiterated the determination to keep cholera under control. She implored every individual to contribute to this critical effort, emphasizing the significance of a united front in combating the spread of cholera. As the nation grapples with this public health challenge, collaboration and vigilance emerge as key elements in the ongoing battle against cholera in Malawi.
Avant Publications