Cholera outbreak in Malawi continues to rise, health activist blames citizens' laxity in sanitation and hygiene practices

Over 27,500 cases and 890 deaths have been reported since the first case was found in the Machinga district in March last year, and the number of cholera cases in the nation continues to rise.

Jobe: Laxity is the problem

Malawi: A lack of adherence by the general public to good sanitation and hygiene practices is to blame for the rise in cholera cases, according to health activist George Jobe, writes Memory Phoso.

Over 27,500 cases and 890 deaths have been reported since the first case was found in the Machinga district in March last year, and the number of cholera cases in the nation continues to rise.

The number of cholera cases in the country continues to rise, with over 27,500 cases and 890 deaths reported since the first case was identified in Machinga district in March last year.

Jobe said, "It is worrisome that cholera continues to claim many lives despite efforts and interventions put in place to fight the outbreak."

He continued by saying that the nation must intensify its efforts in the battle by working with the media and other stakeholders on awareness campaigns about the outbreak.

Jobe also attributed the spike in cases to a lack of relevant information on the cholera outbreak, saying "there is a need for government and other stakeholders, such as media to intensify awareness campaigns for people to understand that cholera outbreak is real."

He also urged district and city councils to ensure proper waste management and educate the populace about doing the same.

The government has meanwhile urged well-wishers to aid in the battle against the outbreak.

Adrian Chikumbe, Ministry of Health Spokesperson, said, "Organizations and individuals have already joined the cause by donating items and equipment to help in the fight against the cholera pandemic in the country."

If Malawians continue to reject cholera oral vaccination, good sanitation and hygiene practise, and other preventative measures, according to Jobe, the fight against the cholera outbreak will remain a distant dream.

All parties involved in the government and the fight against the outbreak are urged to step up their efforts at raising awareness.