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Deadly Cholera Outbreak Sweeps Across Southern Africa

In a devastating turn of events, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Malawi find themselves at the heart of the deadliest cholera outbreak in southern Africa in over a decade. The global stockpile of vaccines, crucial in limiting the spread of the disease, has been depleted, leaving thousands vulnerable to infection.

Since the beginning of 2024, more than 1,000 lives have been claimed by cholera, with tens of thousands falling ill across Africa. The Democratic Republic of the Congo, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Ethiopia are among the hardest-hit nations, grappling with the relentless onslaught of the disease.

Zambia, in particular, is facing its worst outbreak on record, with over 740 deaths reported since the onset of seasonal rains in October 2023.

Cholera, a highly contagious bacterial infection, can lead to severe diarrhea and dehydration within hours of exposure. While the disease is treatable, the death rate in Zambia, one of the world’s poorest countries, exceeds 3%.

The spread of cholera is often linked to areas lacking safe drinking water and proper sanitation, such as disaster-hit regions or impoverished communities. The Vibrio cholerae bacteria responsible for the disease is transmitted through contaminated water sources, posing a significant risk to those reliant on untreated water.

Epidemiologist Yap Boum highlighted the role of inequality, conflict, insecurity, and poverty in fueling cholera outbreaks across Africa. Climate change further exacerbates the situation, with increased flooding contributing to the spread of the disease.

Despite efforts to contain the outbreak, the global demand for cholera vaccines has outstripped supply. The sole manufacturer, based in South Korea, is unable to meet the overwhelming need for vaccines, leaving many vulnerable populations unprotected.

While vaccines play a crucial role in disease prevention, experts emphasize the importance of holistic approaches to combat cholera. Community health education, access to clean water, and improved sanitation practices are essential in curbing the spread of the disease.

The lack of regional vaccine production capacity in Africa poses a significant challenge in responding to cholera outbreaks effectively. Efforts to establish local manufacturing facilities, such as the licensing agreement signed by Biovac in South Africa, are seen as a step in the right direction towards self-reliance in disease prevention.

As southern Africa grapples with the devastating impact of cholera, the urgent need for coordinated global efforts to address the root causes of the disease and strengthen healthcare systems is more apparent than ever.