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. 2012 Jun;24(2):29-33.

Cholera outbreak in districts around Lake Chilwa, Malawi: lessons learned

Amin Khonje  1 , Carol Ann Metcalf, Emma Diggle, Dudley Mlozowa, Chandiwira Jere, Ann Akesson, Tom Corbet, Zachariah Chimanga
Affiliations

Cholera outbreak in districts around Lake Chilwa, Malawi: lessons learned

Amin Khonje et al. Malawi Med J. 2012 Jun.

Abstract

Background: Cholera is endemic in Malawi with seasonal outbreaks during the wet season. People living around Lake Chilwa rely on the lake for their water supply. From May 2009 to May 2010, a cholera outbreak occurred in fishing communities around Lake Chilwa. This paper describes the outbreak response and lessons learned for prevention and management of future outbreaks.

Methods: Starting in January 2010, Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) helped District Health Management Teams (DHMTs) to distribute educational materials, water disinfectant and hygiene supplies, and oral rehydration solution (ORS) in fishing communities. MSF also supported case management by mentoring health workers and providing equipment and supplies.

Results: A total of 1,171 cholera cases and 21 deaths were reported in the districts around the lake, with cases also being reported on the Mozambican side of the lake. The attack rate was highest among people living on or around the lake, particularly among fishermen. Samples of lake water had high turbidity conducive to the propagation of Vibrio cholerae.

Conclusion: A number of practical measures could be taken to prevent future outbreaks and to manage outbreaks more effectively. These measures should address surveillance, environmental management, outbreak preparedness, and case management.

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Figures

Fig 2a
Fig 2a
Machinga District
Fig 2b
Fig 2b
Zomba District
Fig 2c
Fig 2c
Phalombe District
None
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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