"Dr. Tomaz Augusto Salomão has dispatched a multifaceted team to
Zimbabwe to assess the situation on the ground and determine how best
SADC should assist to effectively deal with the outbreak," the
Gaborone-based SADC secretariat said in a statement.
"The team will further consult with the World Health Organisation,
relevant authorities and stakeholders involved in the containment of
the epidemic.
"The current spread of the cholera outbreak is also affecting Botswana,
South Africa and Zambia. The spread of this epidemic and its impact on
public health, social and economic wellbeing of the people of the
region requires concerted regional efforts."
Since the start of the cholera crisis in August, cholera has so far killed
575 people and infected more than 12 000 people, according to the United Nations.
The regional team that is being headed by senior officials from the
South African government will report to an emergency meeting of a
special SADC Troika committee of Health Ministers and Water Affairs on
December 11, 2008 in Johannesburg, South Africa.
The SADC Troika comprises of South Africa, Democratic Republic of Congo and Zambia.
The SADC secretariat has established a SADC cholera information centre
to facilitate the regional efforts during this crisis on a daily basis.
"We are appealing to all stakeholders, civil society, private
institutions, NGOs, churches and individuals in the region and outside
to assist the people of Zimbabwe during these difficult times that they
are going through," SADC said.
"We also wish to appeal to the general public to observe and practice
all necessary safety measures to prevent and control the spread of this
epidemic, in particular, those involved in cross border movement." –
ZimOnline.
Post published in: News