The Ministry of Health and Child Care has announced an escalation in suspected cholera cases, reaching a total of 6,939, with Buhera district in Manicaland province identified as the primary hotspot for the outbreak.

In the latest weekly situational report on Zimbabwe’s cholera situation, released on Saturday, it was revealed that the death toll from the severe diarrheal disease has risen to 142, with 49 confirmed deaths. The report, dated November 11, 2023, outlines 1,191 confirmed cases and 6,652 recoveries.

The report provides a breakdown of the current hospitalizations across various provinces. As of November 10, 2023, 96 individuals are hospitalized in Chivi (4), Gutu (1), Chiredzi (6) in Masvingo province, Buhera (23), Chipinge (2), Mutare Rural (17), Chimanimani (1), Mutare City (3), and Mutasa (1) in Manicaland province.

Zimbabwe’s first cholera case was reported in Chegutu, Mashonaland West province, on February 12 of this year. The period between November 4 and 10 saw an additional 598 suspected cases, 91 confirmed cases, 670 recoveries, five confirmed deaths, and 13 suspected deaths.

The report emphasizes that cases have been identified in 10 provinces of the country, with Manicaland, Harare, Matabeleland South, Mashonaland West, Mashonaland Central, and Masvingo experiencing the greatest burden. The cumulative figures from November 4 to 10 indicate 6,939 suspected cases, 1,191 confirmed cases, 49 confirmed deaths, and 96 hospitalized cases.

The report notes an average of 85 suspected cases reported per day since November 10, compared to an average of 78 cases in the previous week. Additionally, the number of tests conducted (RDT and Culture) increased from 35,007 to 36,003 during the week. The report observes a gradual increase in cases in Manicaland and Masvingo provinces, with the highest peak recorded on October 27 at 111 cases.

In other news – Musician Leo Magozz opens up about his music career

Hip Hop artist Tavonga Leo Magombedze, affectionately known as Leo Magozz, says he has managed to turn his name into a brand and is engaging corporates owing to the success of his Fire Emoji song he released last year.

On the song, he featured musicians Brian Jeck and Bling 4. It was later remixed by an array of artists such as dancehall chanters Nutty O, Buffalo SoulJah, and hip hop sensations Holy Ten, Voltz JT, Kae Chaps, and Kikky Badass all featuring the originator. Read More