1997 - Cholera in Mozambique - Update 4

26 November 1997

Disease Outbreak Reported

A total of 4 301 cases and 146 deaths (3.4%) had been notified up to 25 November in Maputo City, other areas of Maputo Province and Xai-Xai City in Gaza Province, of which 2 637 cases were registered since 7 November. Maputo City continues to be the most affected area with 92% of all cases reported. However, the daily admissions at the central hospital in Maputo City has declined from over 200 to 150. Up to 22 November, 63 cases (no deaths) had been reported in Xai-Xai City, Gaza Province since the outbreak started there on 5 November. Three suspect cases and one death were notified in Chokwe district in the same province on 24 November.

The government has reactivated the National Commission for Emergency Management which is chaired by the Prime Minister and the Minister of Health has set up and chairs the National Technical Commission for the daily coordination of all technical aspects of the campaign. WHO is working closely with the national authorities to coordinate the international response and mobilize resources.

Several countries (Egypt, Italy, Portugal, Spain) responded to Government appeals with funds, rehydration fluid, tents and technical assistance. Médecins Sans Frontières has organized a new treatment facility and is assisting in control activities. Agencies interested in further supporting the control activities can contact the WHO Cholera Task Force for details on immediate and long term activities (fax: 41-22-791 4893 or e-mail neiram@who.ch).