By Fanuel Chinowaita
MUTARE – Health authorities have issued a cholera alert in Mutare District after recording one confirmed case and one suspected case of the potentially deadly disease, prompting increased surveillance and calls for residents to strengthen hygiene practices.
The Ministry of Health and Child Care said the two individuals had recently visited the gold mining area of Penhalonga, an area now under close monitoring as officials work to prevent further transmission.
In a public alert, the Ministry urged residents in both urban and rural parts of Mutare to remain vigilant and strictly follow cholera prevention measures.
“Mutare District has recorded a confirmed cholera case and one suspected case. The two have a history of visiting Penhalonga gold mining area. Mutare residents are kindly urged to be alert,” the Ministry said.
Cholera is an acute diarrheal disease caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. The disease is spread through contaminated food and water and can lead to severe dehydration and death within hours if treatment is delayed.
Health officials warned residents to be on the lookout for symptoms such as severe watery diarrhoea, vomiting, excessive thirst, sunken eyes, dry skin and muscle cramps.
The Ministry advised communities to take preventive measures, including drinking safe water, washing hands regularly with soap, using toilets properly and ensuring that food is thoroughly cooked before consumption.
Residents who depend on potentially unsafe water sources were urged to boil drinking water or treat it using approved household water treatment products such as Water Guard or Aqua Tabs.
Authorities also encouraged people to wash fruits and vegetables with safe water and maintain clean surroundings to reduce the risk of infection.
Health officials said anyone suffering from diarrhea should be treated as a potential cholera case, particularly if they have recently travelled to Penhalonga or received visitors from the mining area.
As an immediate response measure, families were advised to prepare an oral rehydration solution for anyone showing symptoms while seeking urgent medical attention. The solution can be made by mixing six level teaspoons of sugar and half a level teaspoon of salt in one litre of safe water.
“Cholera can kill within hours if untreated. Seek medical attention immediately at your nearest clinic or hospital,” the Ministry warned.
The alert comes as health authorities intensify disease surveillance and preparedness measures to prevent a possible outbreak in Mutare District.
Residents have been urged to report suspected cases promptly and seek treatment at the nearest health facility as authorities work to contain the disease and protect communities from further infections.