Zimbabwe has declared a state of emergency in the capital Harare over a cholera outbreak that has infected more than 7,000 people and killed over 200 since February 2023.
The outbreak, which started in the rural district of Buhera, has spread to all 10 provinces of the country, with Harare, Mutare, and Bulawayo reporting the highest number of cases.
The government has imposed strict hygiene measures and surveillance systems to prevent the spread of the waterborne disease that is caused by bacteria that thrive in contaminated water and food.
Schools, which were closed for the holidays, reopened on Monday with some restrictions on gatherings, food service, and physical contact.
According to a report by Newsday Zimbabwe, the Ministry of Health and Child Care has also distributed chlorine tablets, soap, and buckets to schools and communities to promote handwashing and disinfection.
Challenges and Risks
However, some parents and teachers fear that the reopening of schools could worsen the situation, especially in areas where water and sanitation facilities are inadequate or non-existent.
“Some schools do not have running water or toilets. How can they prevent cholera?” said Tambudzai Mushonga, a mother of two in Harare.
Some teachers have also expressed concern about the lack of protective equipment and training to deal with possible cholera cases in schools.
“We lack gloves, masks, or thermometers to handle this outbreak. We do not know how to identify and isolate suspected cases. The government and health authorities need to provide us with more support and guidance,” said Obert Masaraure, president of the Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe.
Education and Awareness
On the other hand, some experts and officials argue that education is a key tool to raise awareness and improve sanitation among students and their families.
“Schools are not only places of learning, but also of socialization and behavior change. We can use this opportunity to teach children about the causes, symptoms, and prevention of cholera and other diseases. We can also empower them to be agents of change in their communities,” said Itai Rusike, executive director of the Community Working Group on Health, a non-governmental organization.
The government has also launched a nationwide campaign to educate the public about cholera and encourage them to seek treatment as soon as possible.
“Cholera is a preventable and treatable disease. We urge everyone to practice good hygiene, drink safe water, and report any signs of illness to the nearest health facility. Together, we can defeat this outbreak and save lives,” said Torerai Moyo, the minister of health and child care
Despite the challenges and risks, some students and teachers have expressed hope and resilience as they resume their education amid the cholera scare.
“We are happy to be back in school. We know how to protect ourselves and our families,” said Shingirai Chingono, a 10-year-old student in Mutare.
Tapedza Zhou, secretary-general of the Educators Union of Zimbabwe, expressed confidence in the ability of the union to overcome the challenge and make a difference in society. Zhou also expressed gratitude for the support and cooperation of parents, the government, and health workers.
