By Tell reporters
The cholera outbreak recently reported in the Chiredzi and Beitbridge are isolated cases that do not pose an immediate threat to the rest of Masvingo province as measures are in place to counter any eventuality, Deputy Provincial Medical Director Dr Amadeus Shamu has said.
An outbreak of cholera was reported in Chiredzi at the beginning of this month while other cases reported in the border town of Beitbridge, putting authorities on both sides of the border on high alert
Speaking to Tell Zimbabwe on the cholera scare gripping the province, Dr Shamu said medical institutions have been put on high alert to deal with any possible spread of the contagious disease.
“Community mobilisation and sensitisation programmes have always been in place to deal with such issues,” said Dr Shamu encouraging people to practice good personal hygiene to prevent the disease.
On the preparedness of medical facilities and whether they are adequately equipped to treat cases, Dr Shamu said he was confident any possible case would be handled well.
“Yes, I am confident our hospital and clinics are well prepared to treat any cholera case should any other cases are reported.
Meanwhile the two Chiredzi victims have reportedly been discharged from hospital where they had stayed in isolation.
South African authorities have meanwhile sealed off the Sikwalakwala border post with Zimbabwe to prevent a spill over of the disease.
Lack of basic sanitation facilities and access to clean drinking water coupled with poor personal hygiene have frequently been cited as causes of cholera both in towns and rural areas.local
