Friday, July 31, 2009

Zimbabwe declares end to cholera epidemic

Terra Daily via Agence France-Presse: Zimbabwe's health minister said Thursday a cholera epidemic has ended, after more than 4,200 deaths and 100,000 cases since last August, but warned new outbreaks remain a threat. "The nation experienced the worst cholera outbreak between August and June 2009, but the epidemic has successfully been contained and has ended," Health Minister Henry Madzorera said in the official Herald newspaper.

"As the pandemic comes to an end, all districts, provinces and cities will... plan forward for future outbreaks, which have a strong likelihood of recurring in view of continued sewerage and water problems," he added. The outbreak erupted in August as post-election violence was sweeping the country, while public services including hospitals and clinics shut down.

The diarrhoeal disease thrives in places without proper sanitary facilities. Cholera is deadly but easily preventable with clean water and proper sanitation….

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