Zambia: The suspected Cholera case, which was recorded at Kitwe Teaching Hospital on January 1, has been confirmed positive. The development has been confirmed by the hospital’s Public Relations Officer, Febby Chiley.
The victim had travelled from Lusaka District and began to show symptoms of the disease. The local authorities of the country were subsequently alerted and they started investigating.
Many parts of the country are currently struggling with the outbreak of the disease. Accordingly, the administrations of various parts of the country have increased precautionary measures to contain the spread of the disease
The Kitwe District Public Relations Officer shared the details of the first suspected case of Cholera. Chileya said the victim has since been taken to Bulangililo Cholera Centre and continues to receive treatment.
She described the state of the patient as stable. The hospital authorities have been urging the people of the country to remain safe and secure in the situation of the outbreak.
“The Rapid Diagnostic Test was positive and the patient has been transferred to our Bulangilo Cholera treatment centre. However, we are still waiting for the results from the Tropical Disease Research Centre in Ndola,” She said.
Chileya said the hospital is ready to manage any possible influx in the number of cholera cases.
She said there were enough rooms and medical supplies for managing the cases.
She, however, appealed to members of the public to be on high alert to avoid the spread of the disease, which she said can be prevented.
“I want to urge people to take cholera preventive measures such as boiling their drinking water, washing food thoroughly, washing hands after using the toilet, avoiding clouded places and unnecessary visits to health facilities among others,’ She said.
The confirmation of a cholera case in Kitwe adds Copperbelt to the list of affected provinces. The people of the country appreciate the dedication of the health stakeholders.