Cholera outbreak claims two lives in Glendale; town declared hotspot

ZIMSPHERE

GLENDALE – In a tragic turn of events, two residents of Glendale, a mining town in the Mashonaland Central province, have fallen victim to cholera. The town, now identified as an epidemic hotspot, has reported 14 cases of the disease so far.

The deaths, which occurred last week, have been officially confirmed as cholera-related fatalities. 

In response to the escalating situation, retired Captain Christopher Magomo, the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs, has confirmed the activation of all Civil Protection Committees. 

A significant step taken includes the establishment of a major camp at Tsungubvi Polyclinic. 

Captain Magomo stated, “14 cases and two deaths have been recorded so far, most cases are coming from Rujeko, Highway, Westview and Nhano area and so far the assessments done show that the whole Glendale area has been contaminated. 

“We have established a major camp at Tsungubvi Polyclinic and so far three rooms are being used as cholera camps however we are in the process of securing more tents for accommodation of more patients as well as cholera beds.”

In a bid to curb the spread of the disease, Dr K Chisenwa, the District Medical Officer, has issued a communique to the police, imposing a ban on all gatherings in Glendale and the wider Mazowe District. 

The communique reads, “There is a cholera outbreak in Glendale and the epicentre of the outbreak being Tsungubvi township and its locations. Thus gatherings and festivities would exacerbate the spread of the conditions. Until the outbreak has been contained, a communique to lift the ban by the Ministry of Health would be provided.”