We have identified you may not be viewing TRAVAX optimally because the browser you are using is unsupported - click here.

Suitcase

Cholera in Zimbabwe

22 November 2023

The Zimbabwean Ministry of Health reports continuing transmission of cholera across Zimbabwe. As of 16 October 2023 there were 5 030 suspected cholera cases, 31 laboratory confirmed deaths, 108 suspected cholera deaths and 932 laboratory confirmed cases.

Areas affected by the outbreak include Buhera, Chegutu, Chikomba, Chimanimani, Chipinge, Chitungwiza, Chiredzi, Harare, Gokwe North, Marondera, Mazowe, Shamva, Mutare, Murehwa, Mwenezi, Seke, Wedza, Manicaland, Mindland, Harare and Matebeland.

Cholera is an acute diarrhoeal infection caused by ingestion of faecally contaminated food or water, and occasionally foodstuffs such as shellfish.

Advice for Travellers

Severe cholera is rare in travellers. Mild cases may present as travellers' diarrhoea.

All travellers should be given advice on:

Vaccination against cholera is dependent on the individual risk assessment, but may be considered for:

  • volunteers/humanitarian workers/medical personnel travelling to disaster relief situations where cholera outbreaks are likely
  • travellers with remote itineraries in areas where cholera outbreaks are occurring and there is limited access to medical care

For more information, please see the TRAVAX Cholera Page.