Cholera Outbreaks in Machinga District Contained: Health Center Goes One Week Without a Case
The centre is also working to combat myths and misconceptions about cholera by intensifying programs aimed at raising awareness through traditional leaders.
Malawi: Ntaja Health Center in Machinga district has not registered a single cholera case in the past week and has only reported a total of 38 cases and 3 fatalities, according to Robert Phiri, the in-charge of the health facility, writes Meclina Chirwa.
Phiri attributes this positive development to the various interventions implemented by the centre, including the distribution of chlorine by health surveillants and assistants in the surrounding communities.
"There are a lot of interventions that we have put in place that have assisted us in containing the outbreak. One of the major ones is engaging in health surveillance to distribute chlorine in the communities,” Phiri stated.
He also added that the centre is well-equipped with adequate medical supplies and is ready to handle any new cases that may arise.
Phiri emphasized the importance of promoting good hygiene practices and raising awareness about the use of safe and clean water to reduce the burden on the Machinga district hospital.
The centre is also working to combat myths and misconceptions about cholera by intensifying programs aimed at raising awareness through traditional leaders.
Phiri expressed his gratitude for the support provided by the Machinga district health office, which has helped the centre in its efforts to contain the cholera outbreak.
"We are very grateful for the continued support that we have received from the district health office. It has not been an easy job, but we have not lacked anything from the onset, and this has helped us put in much effort," Phiri said.
Machinga district has a population of 845,076 and 16 cholera treatment camps.