A GRUMBLING stomach, relentless vomiting, and agonizing dehydration are just some of the symptoms experienced by individuals affected by cholera in Zimbabwe. However, the fight against this waterborne disease is being hindered by a pervasive stigma that surrounds it. Many people, like Tendai Musoko, are hesitant to seek medical attention due to the fear of shame and social isolation that comes with the diagnosis.
Musoko, a resident of Harare’s Glen View suburb, felt ashamed and embarrassed at the thought of going to the clinic for treatment. The misconception that cholera is solely a result of poor hygiene and associated with uncleanliness further adds to the stigma. As a result, individuals often resort to ineffective home remedies, leading to tragic consequences. In some cases, patients have even lost their lives due to delayed or improper treatment.
Health experts are emphasizing the urgent need to address this stigma, as it acts as a significant barrier to care. Enock Dongo, the president of the Zimbabwe Nurses Association, highlighted the preventable nature of cholera-related deaths. However, fear and stigma continue to push the death toll higher. Dongo stressed the importance of public awareness campaigns to dispel myths, promote early medical intervention, and create empathy and understanding within communities.
Itai Rusike, the executive director of the Community Working Group on Health, emphasized the need to learn from past experiences with stigmatized diseases such as HIV/AIDS and COVID-19. Zimbabwe must address the causes of stigma surrounding cholera patients and remove the social barriers that hinder people from seeking early treatment.
Johannes Marisa, the president of the Medical and Dental Private Practitioners Association of Zimbabwe, warned that without addressing underlying sanitation and infrastructure issues, recurrent outbreaks of cholera will persist. He advocated for a comprehensive approach that encompasses health education, clean water supplies, proper sanitation, and accessible treatment for all.
The cholera outbreak has been devastating, claiming over 200 lives. The recent increase in cases has raised concerns, with a weekly average of 1,000 new cases reported. The outbreak has affected all provinces in the country, with Harare and Manicaland heavily impacted. The United Nations Office for the Co-ordination of Humanitarian Affairs and the Red Cross Federation have both expressed their worries about the spread of the disease across urban and rural areas.
Efforts to combat the outbreak have included government interventions such as banning large gatherings and intensifying risk communication. However, the Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights criticized the government’s handling of the situation, emphasizing the importance of investing in water, sanitation infrastructure, and public health facilities.
It is crucial to address the stigma surrounding cholera in Zimbabwe, as lives are at stake. By promoting awareness, breaking down barriers, and ensuring accessible treatment and proper infrastructure, the country can work towards eradicating cholera and preventing future outbreaks.
