Malawi’s Ministry of Health and Sanitation has confirmed two cholera cases in Lilongwe and Balaka districts and urged the public to take preventive measures to curb further spread.
According to a statement by Ministry of Health principal secretary Bestone Chisamile on Tuesday, the cases involve a five‑year‑old from Area 24 in Lilongwe, admitted to Bwaila Hospital on 5 December, and a 42‑year‑old man from Traditional Authority Kalembo in Balaka, treated at Kalembo Health Centre on 8 December.
Chisamile advised citizens to drink safe water, wash hands thoroughly with soap, and report suspected cases promptly.
“Let’s immediately report any suspected cases of cholera to our nearest health facilities for treatment,” he said.
The official assured that health facilities are adequately stocked to manage cholera.
Malawi has grappled with recurring cholera outbreaks, most recently in 2022–2023, when the country recorded its deadliest epidemic in decades with over 1,700 deaths.
Health experts attributed the surge to poor sanitation, contaminated water sources and flooding linked to tropical storms, which worsened the spread of the disease.
JN/APA