ECDC expert deployed to Zambia to contribute to cholera outbreak response efforts

This deployment was part of the EU Health Task Force, coordinated through the Global Outbreak Alert and Response Network (GOARN), and operating from the World Health Organization’s (WHO) office in Zambia.

The expert engaged in various tasks, such as participating in an Intra-Action Review on Cholera Response, updating Infection Prevention and Control  and Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) Standard Operating Procedures  for Cholera Treatment Centers, and assisting in drafting a protocol for investigating cholera-related community deaths. Throughout the mission, she fostered closer collaboration with Africa CDC’s Southern Regional Coordination Centre, the Zambian Ministry of Health, and the National Public Health Institute.

Background

On 18 October 2023, the government of Zambia declared a cholera outbreak in Lusaka province. The outbreak spread to other provinces, and by January 2024 the number of cases peaked. Lusaka was the epicentre of the outbreak, and densely populated areas with limited access to clean water and sanitation services were affected the most. The government activated a high-level outbreak response and requested partners to increase support. GOARN published a Request for Assistance to cover the needs of the WHO country office.