Typhoid in Zimbabwe (Harare)
04 Dec 2017
On 24 November World Health Organisation (WHO) reported 
that an outbreak of typhoid in Harare is continuing, although case numbers are declining. The outbreak began in mid September 2017 and was seen in the Mbare area of the city in early October. By 20 November 2017, 1 065 suspected cases were reported. Fifty-six percent of the reported cases are from the Mbare area.
Advice to travellers
Typhoid is spread by the faecal oral route, precautionary measures should therefore be taken to avoid consumption of potentially contaminated drinks, drinking water and ice and to ensure food is uncontaminated or cooked thoroughly.
Personal hygiene when eating and drinking is also important including hand washing prior to eating and using clean plates, cups and utensils.
When to consider vaccination
Vaccination is recommended for travellers to high risk areas where food and water may be contaminated.
Travel to low risk areas - vaccination may be recommended only to those staying in conditions with poor sanitation and unable to maintain their own hygiene precautions e.g. hand hygiene and water purification.
For further information see Typhoid.