Long-Term Solutions Needed to End Cholera
The current outbreak situation remains sporadic and much better than last year, she said.
LILONGWE, Malawi - Minister of Health Khumbize Kandodo Chiponda said Friday that Malawi needs to identify priority areas for multi-sectoral interventions on cholera to bring a long-term solution to the outbreaks, writes Kumbukani Kondowe, MANA.
Chiponda made the remarks at Ministry of Health headquarters during a press briefing to update the nation on the status of cholera, as the rainy season intensifies.
She observed that cholera outbreaks occur every rainy season and said this must change through permanent control measures.
The government is committed to the global goal of ending cholera by 2030, she added.
“Identifying priority areas for multi-sectoral interventions is paramount for effective cholera control in Malawi, hence concentrating our limited resources and interventions in vulnerable areas will enable a more focused and efficient response,” Chiponda said.
Several other interventions can provide long-term solutions, including sustained political will, resource mobilization, community engagement and coordination among stakeholders, she noted.
“The President remains highly engaged and dedicated to the prevention and control of cholera,” Chiponda said. She and other officials remain actively involved in fighting cholera, she added.
Chiponda said the media can help combat outbreaks by disseminating hygiene messages on risk factors like unsafe water, poor sanitation and low pit latrine usage.
Minister of Water and Sanitation Abida Mia said her ministry is providing boreholes and ensuring water boards provide continuous supply, as water interruptions can also trigger cholera.
The current outbreak situation remains sporadic and much better than last year, she said.