Southern Africa battles deadly cholera outbreak

Cholera is a bacterial infection caused by consuming contaminated water or food. It can lead to severe dehydration and even death if left untreated. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Southern Africa is currently experiencing its deadliest cholera outbreak in at least a decade, with Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Malawi being the most affected countries.

As of October 2021, Zambia reported over 10,000 confirmed cases and 135 deaths, while Zimbabwe had over 5,000 cases and 125 deaths. Malawi reported over 1,500 cases and 30 deaths. These numbers continue to rise as the outbreak spreads rapidly due to poor sanitation and hygiene conditions, as well as population displacement caused by climate-related disasters and political instability.

The global stockpile of cholera vaccines, maintained by Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, has run dry, leaving these countries without access to an essential tool for controlling the spread of the disease. Gavi had planned to deliver 1.3 million doses of the vaccine to these countries in 2021 but had to delay the shipment due to logistical challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Cholera is preventable through access to clean water and proper sanitation, as well as through vaccination. The lack of access to these basic necessities, coupled with the unavailability of vaccines, has left millions of people at risk in these countries.

The WHO and its partners, including UNICEF and the International Organization for Migration (IOM), have launched emergency responses to contain the outbreak. They are providing treatment and supplies, such as oral rehydration salts and intravenous fluids, as well as conducting awareness campaigns to educate communities about prevention methods. However, more resources are needed to effectively address this crisis and prevent further loss of life.

The African Development Bank has pledged $1 million to support Zambia's response efforts, while the European Union has provided €10 million for emergency response efforts in Zimbabwe and Malawi. The international community is urged to continue providing support to these countries as they work to contain the outbreak and provide essential services to their populations.

In conclusion, the current cholera outbreak in Southern Africa is the deadliest in at least a decade, with Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Malawi being the most affected countries. The global stockpile of cholera vaccines has run dry, leaving these countries without access to an essential tool for controlling the spread of the disease. The international community is urged to continue providing support to these countries as they work to contain the outbreak and provide essential services to their populations.