Mozambique Faces Major Health Risks Following Cyclone Freddy and Cholera Outbreak
Mozambicans are still feeling the aftermath of Cyclone Freddy, which has resulted in the displacement of approximately 184,000 people. In addition, the country is currently experiencing its most severe cholera outbreak in over a decade. The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that over one million people are now at risk of contracting cholera, polio, or COVID-19.
Speaking from Maputo, the WHO representative for Mozambique, Dr. Severin von Xylander, explained that while cholera outbreaks occur regularly between October and April every year, with more than 21,000 cases and 95 deaths currently reported, this is the largest outbreak in the past 20 years. In Manica province, for example, which borders Zimbabwe, there have been no reported cases of cholera in the past 15 years.
Still on Cholera outbreak in Mozambique...
The damage caused by Cyclone Freddy in mid-March has increased health risks, with 163 health facilities affected. The WHO representative commended the work of health professionals and noted that the case fatality rate for the cholera treatment center is below the threshold of one percent, which is a positive development. However, the situation remains concerning as cases continue to rise, with eight of the country’s 11 provinces affected.
The first vaccination campaign was launched in February, and a new one targeting 410,000 people began in the eastern city of Quelimane on Thursday. The campaign aims to combat the acute diarrheal infection known as cholera, which is characterized by extreme watery diarrhea and potentially fatal dehydration.
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