UNICEF Zambia Cholera Response

Highlights

From October 2023 to date, ten provinces have reported cases of cholera with seven provinces confirming cholera outbreaks. Among these, 72 out of 116 districts have reported cases, with 13 districts reporting cases, currently. The cases are mainly occurring in the unplanned high-density areas of Lusaka, Central and Copperbelt provinces with high risks in the fishing camps/districts of Southern and Central provinces which are known hotspots. 

Comparing epi weeks 7 and 8, Zambia saw a 28.5 % reduction in new cases, with Lusaka recording a 36% reduction. However, Lusaka, Copperbelt, Central and Southern provinces have continued reporting new cases consistently per day to date. The outbreaks in the Copperbelt province are concerning and require close monitoring, the province also requires additional support. Furthermore, there is continued need for actions that improve household access to clean water, promote and increase hand washing and early access to care in these four provinces.