Mozambique, Malawi, Zimbabwe: Cholera Situation (as of 15 April 2015)

Cholera situation

In Malawi, 96 new cholera cases were reported this week – the highest number since the outbreak began 9 weeks ago, with 3 new deaths. The outbreak continues to spread to new areas. According to WHO, the epi-curve is indicative of the presence of a common source of infection to which people are exposed to continuously or intermittently. The response is ongoing, with more than 850 health workers trained in cholera case management, and 129,000 people vaccinated in the first round of a two-round campaign.

Mozambique continues to experience a downward trend in new cholera cases, with 173 new cases this week (mainly in Zambezia and Cabo Delgado provinces), compared to 372 the previous week.

In Zimbabwe, while the situation appears under control, Government and partners remain on alert following 1 new suspected cholera cases in Manicaland Province and 1 suspected case in Mashonaland East Province. WHO has donated 4 cholera kits, each with the capacity to treat up to 100 severe cholera cases. The governments of Zimbabwe and Mozambique will meet to discuss cholera issues later in April.

In Tanzania, a cholera outbreak has also been reported in Rorya district, with 2 confirmed cases, 19 suspected cases and no deaths since 27 March, of which 16 suspected cases were reported between 4 and 10 April (the latest information available). Government response is ongoing.