Cholera is a major public health issue in Zambia, with epidemics typically occurring during the rainy season. The outbreak in February 2016 was, however, the first to hit the capital since 2011.
In January 2018, we again supported the Ministry of Health to manage an unusually large number of cases during a cholera outbreak in south Lusaka. We provided 24-hour support at the cholera treatment centre at Chawama hospital, as well as training staff, donating equipment and helping to establish surveillance and referral systems.
We also returned to Zambia in 2024, to support during another cholera outbreak. Our response comprised a range of activities, including treatment, donations of medical supplies, water and sanitation services, and community awareness raising.
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MSF responds to a surge in cholera in Zambia amid regional outbreaks
Encouraging new results further demonstrate effectiveness of the single dose oral cholera vaccine
A promising new one-dose cholera vaccination strategy could save lives during outbreaks
MSF responds to serious cholera outbreak in Zambia as the situation deteriorates rapidly in the capital city
Cholera in Zambia: 'People do not want to talk about it. It's a dirty disease'