Spike in Diarrhoea Cases Across Zimbabwe

Spike in Diarrhoea Cases Across Zimbabwe

The Ministry of Health and Child Care has raised the alarm about a sharp rise in common diarrhea cases throughout Zimbabwe. In a recent update, the ministry reported a staggering 8,482 cases in the week ending September 15, 2024, along with 9 deaths from various hospitals.

The fatalities included:

• 4 at Sally Mugabe Central Hospital
• 1 at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals in Harare
• 1 at Mpilo Central Hospital in Bulawayo
• 1 in Mwenezi District, Masvingo
• 2 in Nyanga District, Manicaland

Worryingly, 4,235 of these cases involved children under five, highlighting the vulnerability of young kids to this illness.

The report also noted that Mashonaland West and Manicaland provinces had the highest number of cases, with 1,230 and 1,172 respectively. Overall, the country has recorded 257,601 cases and 136 deaths due to common diarrhea this year. This is a slight increase from the previous week, which saw 7,933 cases and ten deaths.

Stay safe and take necessary precautions to protect yourself and your loved ones from this outbreak.

Symptoms of diarrhoea

Common diarrhea is usually characterized by several symptoms, including:

• Frequent, loose, or watery stools
• Abdominal cramps or pain
• Bloating
• Nausea
• Urgent need to have a bowel movement
• Dehydration, which can cause symptoms like dry mouth, thirst, reduced urine output, and dizziness.

Spike in Diarrhoea Cases Across Zimbabwe

If you or someone you know is experiencing severe symptoms or signs of dehydration, it’s important to seek medical attention promptly. Stay hydrated.

Preventing dehydration

Preventing dehydration during diarrhea is crucial. Here are some tips to help you stay hydrated:

Drink Plenty of Fluids: Increase your intake of fluids. Water is great, but fluids with electrolytes, like oral rehydration solutions, sports drinks, or clear broths, are even better.

Small, Frequent Sips: If you’re feeling nauseous, try taking small sips of water frequently. Sucking on ice chips or frozen popsicles can also help.

Avoid Certain Drinks: Stay away from caffeinated, sugary, or alcoholic drinks as they can worsen dehydration.

Eat Hydrating Foods: Foods like fruits and vegetables can also help maintain your fluid levels.

Monitor for Signs of Dehydration: Watch out for symptoms like dry mouth, dark urine, dizziness, and fatigue. If you notice these signs, increase your fluid intake immediately.

Seek Medical Attention if Needed: If you or someone else shows severe symptoms of dehydration, such as confusion, rapid heartbeat, or fainting, seek medical help right away.

Zambezi Lager Imbibers Complain of Diarrhoea

Staying hydrated is key to recovering quickly and avoiding complications.