By: Miracle Nwankwo
The unfortunate outbreak of cholera in Zanzibar, Tanzania has claimed about 23 people since the beginning of March this year.
In a statement, the acting minister of health, Ms. Riziki Pembe Juma, has called on the public to take due precautions so as to avoid the spread of this deadly disease.
As part of efforts to curb the spread of the disease, the government of Tanzania has banned the sales of roadside edibles in open spaces and also urged the Islamic brethren who are observing the holy month of fasting and praying – Ramadan to break their fast in a hygienic manner and environment. A number of restaurants and eateries have been filtered and only a few of which have been considered safe and clean are permitted to run.
As the rains continue, sewages across the country are beginning to clog causing more hygiene challenges. According to Ms. Riziki Pembe Juma, “The ongoing heavy rains have compromised hygienic standards, as a result of which the incidence of severe diarrhoea and vomiting has risen amongst the people.” Parents have been advised to pay a closer attention to their children.
The Director of Disease Prevention and Control at the Health Ministry, Dr. Fadhil Abdalla Mohamed, urged parents to ensure that their children do not play in stagnant water ponds, and sensitize them to drink clean and safe water, as well as to wash fruits with clean and safe water before eating them.
