Cholera in Tanzania
12 Sep 2017
As of 8 September WHO reported
2220 cases of cholera including 40 deaths on the Tanzanian mainland, so far this year (2017). Zanzibar reported 358 cases and four deaths, as of 27 August 2017.
Since the start of the cholera outbreak on 6 August 2015, 26 199 cases including 411 deaths, and 4688 cases including 72 deaths, were reported from the mainland and Zanzibar, respectively. At least 115 districts in 23 out of 25 regions on the Tanzanian mainland have been affected.
Advice to Travellers
Prevention is focused on ensuring safe water and food, particularly in countries where cholera is more common or where outbreaks occur (see individual country record). Food and drink to be wary of include untreated water, ice, shellfish, salads, unwashed fruit and vegetables.
Good personal hygiene is essential. Individuals should ensure that they wash their hands frequently, prior to eating and after visiting the bathroom.
A vaccine is available to protect against cholera but as the risk to most travellers is very low, it is only recommended in the following circumstances:
- Volunteers/aid workers/medical personnel in disaster relief situations where cholera outbreaks likely.
- Those travelling to work in slums/refugee camps, areas affected by natural disasters, or countries experiencing cholera outbreaks and where care with food and water is difficult or not possible.
For further information see Cholera