Cholera outbreak in Malawi continues to rise, health activist blames citizens' laxity in sanitation and hygiene practices

Malawi: A lack of adherence by the general public to good sanitation and hygiene practices is to blame for the rise in cholera cases, according to health activist George Jobe, writes Memory Phoso.

Over 27,500 cases and 890 deaths have been reported since the first case was found in the Machinga district in March last year, and the number of cholera cases in the nation continues to rise.

The number of cholera cases in the country continues to rise, with over 27,500 cases and 890 deaths reported since the first case was identified in Machinga district in March last year.

He continued by saying that the nation must intensify its efforts in the battle by working with the media and other stakeholders on awareness campaigns about the outbreak.

He also urged district and city councils to ensure proper waste management and educate the populace about doing the same.

The government has meanwhile urged well-wishers to aid in the battle against the outbreak.

If Malawians continue to reject cholera oral vaccination, good sanitation and hygiene practise, and other preventative measures, according to Jobe, the fight against the cholera outbreak will remain a distant dream.

All parties involved in the government and the fight against the outbreak are urged to step up their efforts at raising awareness.