The Zimbabwean government has launched a national cholera education awareness program and spelt out modalities for the distribution of drugs, equipment and funds received from donors as measures to thwart the deadly disease intensify, The Herald reported on Tuesday.
The resources were acquired following the national request for assistance on cholera launched last month and since the receipt of the drugs, equipment and experts, the disease is being tamed, the report said.
Various countries have contributed water treatment chemicals, drugs, equipment, money and medical experts to help Zimbabwe battle the epidemic that has so far claimed over 1,600 lives.
Addressing stakeholders in the health sector at a meeting held in Harare on Monday, Health and Child Welfare Minister David Parirenyatwa said the educational program was scheduled to run for at least six weeks.
"The rollout program is expected to start tomorrow with a meeting between the government and selected people who would be informed," Parirenyatwa said.
Under the program, the government intends to disseminate information on cholera predisposing factors such as the rainy season, unnecessary traveling, unsupervised funerals, overcrowded institutions and flooding, among others.
Parirenyatwa appealed to health workers, provincial governors, administrators, chiefs, churches and other partners to respond to the outbreak in the same way they responded to HIV/AIDS pandemic.
"The reason why we have engaged in this campaign is that cholera is more severe during the rainy season hence we might have more outbreaks. Like what you did with HIV and Aids, we want you to be patrons with cholera through mobilizing resources and disseminating information within your areas of designation," Parirenyatwa said.
He commended partners who have donated equipment, drugs, and financial and logistical support in the fight against cholera.
Source: Xinhua
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