Group calls for immediate action as cholera reportedly ravages Chililabombwe on the Copperbelt

The Medical for Quality Healthcare (MQHZ) has called for urgent action in response to the cholera outbreak reported in Chililabombwe, on the Copperbelt, stressing the need for swift and decisive measures to prevent a repeat of last year’s devastating crisis.

In a statement issued on Friday in Lusaka, MQHZ Director General, Quince Mwabu, warned that the consequences of inaction would be severe.

Mwabu emphasized that Zambia could not afford another tragic loss of lives due to this preventable disease, nor could the nation face further disruptions to the education system.

“The outbreak must not be allowed to spiral out of control as it did last year, when lives were lost, essential services were disrupted, and schools had to be closed,” Mwabu said. “We must act swiftly to prevent more lives from being lost.”

Mwabu demanded that the government and public take immediate and coordinated steps to contain the outbreak. He urged the government to deploy emergency response teams, provide medical supplies, and launch public awareness campaigns.

He called on the Ministry of Health to take a leading role in coordinating the response to ensure all necessary measures are implemented to contain the spread of cholera.

Recognizing the additional resources required to support the response, Mwabu also appealed to the government and international partners for the provision of funds, personnel, and equipment.

Furthermore, he stressed the importance of transparency and accountability in the response efforts, urging regular updates on the situation and the government’s actions.

“The public must also play their part in preventing the spread of cholera by practicing good hygiene, reporting suspected cases, and supporting initiatives to improve sanitation and water quality,” Mwabu said.

He also called on community leaders, traditional authorities, and local organizations to join the efforts to curb the outbreak and protect the public.

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