Martin Muleya

CHIPINGE TIMES REPORTER

Mutare – Mutare City Council has confirmed the outbreak of Cholera in its area of jurisdiction and its swift response to the pandemic.

The local authority’s spokesperson, Spren Mutiwi confirmed the outbreak and said the City health department was working around the clock to contain reported cases in Mahalaphe and Gimboki illegal settlements.

Development partners are helping in the fight against cholera by providing Aqua tablets for Mahalaphe and Gimboki illegal settlements.

“We confirm that we have a cholera case recorded in our jurisdiction in Mutare. Our clarion call is for residents to desist from buying food from unregistered restaurants in suburbs and even within the central business district. That is one of the red flag areas where one can easily get cholera.

“We are distributing water buckets, aqua tablets and soap to Mahalaphe and Gimboki areas that do not have access to piped water and sanitation facilities. Council is ensuring adequate water supply and Mutare Infectious Diseases Hospital (MIDH) has been activated as the centre for accommodating all cholera patients,” said Mutiwi in an interview.

He urged the public to prevent the spread of cholera by washing hands thoroughly with soap or ash under running water after using the toilet and before handling, preparing and eating food.

He warned that council and the law enforcement agents will descend heavily on those operating unlicensed restaurants.