Over 100,000 Vaccinated Against Cholera in Chililabombwe, Zambia

Over 100,000 individuals have been vaccinated against cholera in Chililabombwe, Zambia, achieving 81% of the targeted population. The campaign, supported by WHO, UNICEF, and Red Cross, aims to control the cholera outbreak that has affected Copperbelt Province, reporting 206 total cases and 8 deaths. Supplementary health measures include improved water access and hygiene to combat the disease effectively.

Lusaka, Feb 11 (SocialNews.XYZ) – In Chililabombwe, the district most affected by the cholera outbreak in Zambia’s Copperbelt Province, 104,585 individuals have been vaccinated with the oral cholera vaccine. This represents 81% of the targeted population of 129,837, as reported by Minister of Health, Elijah Muchima.

The vaccination initiative, which commenced last Friday, is being implemented in collaboration with various organizations, including the World Health Organisation (WHO), the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), and the Red Cross. Minister Muchima expressed confidence in the containment of the cholera outbreak due to the collective efforts of multiple ministries.

Additional measures to combat the outbreak include the installation of water tanks and providing treated water for handwashing in key locations. The minister disclosed plans to drill eight boreholes in strategic areas to further improve water access. Since January, Copperbelt Province has reported 206 cholera cases, which constitutes a significant portion of the national total of 238 cases by February 9.

Tragically, all reported deaths, totaling eight, have occurred within Copperbelt Province. The World Health Organisation outlines cholera as a serious diarrheal disease caused by the consumption of contaminated food or water, emphasizing the need for improved access to safe water and sanitation.

Though many infected individuals may experience mild or moderate symptoms, severe cases can escalate quickly, necessitating immediate treatment. Effective management includes oral rehydration solutions for mild cases and intravenous fluids, ORS, and antibiotics for severe infections. Symptoms generally manifest between 12 hours to 5 days after infection, and asymptomatic carriers can still spread the bacteria.

The cholera vaccination campaign in Chililabombwe has successfully immunized over 104,000 people amid a cholera outbreak, representing a significant community health initiative. The Zambian government’s comprehensive approach includes vaccination, improved water supply, and health education, aimed at curbing the spread of this disease. Ongoing monitoring and rapid response are essential to effectively manage cholera cases and prevent further fatalities.

Original Source: www.socialnews.xyz