Date Posted

Zambia records 12 new cholera cases as vaccination campaign set to begin

Facebook
X
LinkedIn
WhatsApp
Zambia has recorded 12 new cholera cases in the past 24 hours, with health authorities stepping up response measures as the disease continues to spread in high‑risk areas.

Health Minister Alex Katakwe said 11 of the new cases were reported in Lusaka District, while one case was confirmed in Mpulungu District. The latest figures bring the cumulative total to 1 415 cases since August 2025, with 22 deaths recorded over the same period.

 

Katakwe announced the update during a media briefing in Solwezi, where he said government efforts are being intensified to curb further transmission. “We are concerned about the continued rise in cases, particularly in Lusaka District,” he said. “Surveillance and screening activities have been strengthened to identify and manage cases early.”

 

Katakwe confirmed that a nationwide cholera vaccination campaign will begin on April 7, targeting high‑risk communities, with special focus on Lusaka District, which remains the epicentre of the outbreak. The campaign aims to reduce infections and prevent further loss of life.

 

Katakwe urged members of the public to adhere strictly to hygiene and sanitation measures, including regular handwashing with soap, drinking safe treated water and reporting suspected cases promptly.
“Anyone experiencing symptoms such as watery diarrhoea and vomiting must seek immediate medical attention,” he said. “Early treatment saves lives.”

 

Meanwhile, North‑Western Province Health Director Dr Luckson Chidikita said the province is fully prepared to respond should cases be detected. He noted that health facilities have been placed on alert and rapid response teams mobilised to manage any potential outbreak.

 

–ChannelAfrica–