The Minister of Health, Dr. Elijah Muchima, has confirmed that Zambia has recorded 238 cumulative cases of cholera as of February 10, 2025. Speaking during a press briefing on Monday, Dr. Muchima disclosed that the latest cholera case in Lusaka involved an individual who had traveled from the Western Province, further underscoring the interconnected nature of the outbreak.
“As you are all aware, my ministry has been responding to cholera outbreaks and alerts across the country, with the Copperbelt Province recording the highest number of confirmed cases,” Muchima stated.
The Ministry of Health has been intensifying its efforts to curb the spread of cholera, a waterborne disease often linked to poor sanitation and contaminated water sources.
Mpox Cases Under Investigation
In addition to the cholera situation, Dr. Muchima revealed that three suspected Mpox cases were recorded in Lusaka over the past 24 hours. The affected patients have been isolated, and investigations are underway to confirm their diagnoses.
“The Ministry of Health is also responding to the Mpox outbreak, predominantly in Lusaka district. However, the Mpox outbreak is under control,” Dr. Muchima assured the public.
Mpox, a viral illness that has gained global attention in recent years, is typically characterized by fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes. The Health Ministry is closely monitoring the situation to prevent further transmission.
Heightened Health Response Efforts
The dual health challenges of cholera and Mpox have placed increased pressure on Zambia’s healthcare system. The Ministry of Health has ramped up its public health interventions, focusing on the following measures:
- Community Sensitization: Efforts are underway to educate the public on cholera prevention, including proper hygiene practices such as handwashing, boiling drinking water, and avoiding food from unverified sources.
- Rapid Response Teams: The Ministry has deployed medical teams to high-risk areas, particularly in the Copperbelt and Lusaka provinces, to manage cases and conduct contact tracing.
- Vaccination Campaigns: Vaccines are being administered in areas most affected by cholera to curb the spread of the disease.
- Isolation Facilities: Designated centers in Lusaka have been set up to handle suspected and confirmed Mpox cases, ensuring timely treatment and containment.
Call for Public Cooperation
Dr. Muchima urged Zambians to remain vigilant and cooperate with health authorities. “We are calling on members of the public to adhere to health guidelines and report any suspected cases of cholera or Mpox immediately. Together, we can overcome these outbreaks,” he emphasized.
As Zambia battles these dual outbreaks, the Ministry of Health is committed to protecting public health and strengthening its disease surveillance systems. The government continues to work with local and international partners to secure resources, improve sanitation infrastructure, and provide adequate healthcare services to the population.
In the meantime, citizens are encouraged to maintain high levels of personal hygiene and stay informed about the latest updates from health authorities.