Cholera outbreaks in several African countries

Cases, deaths and outbreaks due to cholera are being reported in the following countries:

• Nigeria (Bayelsa State) - increasing trend in Ijaw and Sagbama local government areas
• Kenya (southwest counties) - 30 deaths, more than 1,500 cases in Nyanza, Migori, Homa Bay and Kisii counties
• Malawi (Nsanje District) - 2 deaths, at least 80 cases
• Zimbabwe (northeastern provinces) - 15 suspected and confirmed cases in Mudzi, Chipinge and Beitbridge
• Democratic Republic of the Congo (Katanga Province) - 35 deaths, 1,500 cases in 2 months

All travellers to any area where cholera has been reported can reduce the risk of exposure to this infection by strictly observing all food and water precautions. If gastrointestinal symptoms (e.g., vomiting and profuse watery diarrhoea) develop while visiting the affected area, travellers should seek medical care at once.