CHIREDZI A serious health crisis is rapidly looming here after cholera has already claimed more than five deaths. Although officials figures indicate that only three people have died and 28 cases reported so far, investigations made by The Zimbabwean indicated that more deaths and cases have been experienced.When reached for comment, all the relevant health authorities were Evasive.
The District Medical Officer Dr Ngere referred all questions to the Provincial Medical Directors office, who was said to be out of Office. The Provincial Epidemiology and Disease Control Officer, Dr Shamu, said his department did not have any information on the ground regarding the cholera outbreak.
We do not yet have information on what is happening on the ground but we have sent a team to verify the matter and report back to us. It is very unfortunate that we are still waiting for them to report back. Until that point in time is only when we will be able to give you specific details and information regarding the outbreak, said Shamu.
According to other sources, it is alleged that Sangwe alone has more than 150 clinical cases of cholera outbreak whilst Chilonga has 36. The sources also said the cholera outbreak has claimed two more lives, bringing the total number of deaths to five.
The rapid spread of the contagious disease has been attributed to both the inability of health officials to contain the spread and the lack of public awareness regarding such diseases. Since February last year at least 24 deaths and 1 064 cases were reported mainly from 22 districts which include Masvingo and Bikita.
Post published in: News