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Zambia Among Southern African Countries Hit by Cholera Surge

Cholera cases in Southern Africa have risen more than sevenfold in the first six weeks of 2026 compared with the same period last year, according to an analysis by the World Health Organization (WHO). Severe flooding triggered by cyclones, damaged infrastructure, and inadequate water and sanitation for displaced populations are driving the surge.

Between 1 January and 15 February 2026, 4,320 cases and 56 deaths were reported across five Southern African countries – Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe – up from 586 cases and 11 deaths during the same period in 2025. 

This increase contrasts with a general decline in cholera across the African continent, where cases dropped by 47% and deaths by 59% compared with 2025 and 2024.

Mozambique accounts for 90% of cases in the region, as intense flooding has affected more than 700,000 people. Since 2023, Southern Africa has been the continent’s dominant cholera hotspot, with major outbreaks following the 2023–2024 cyclone season.

“The sharp rise in cholera cases in Southern Africa is a clear reminder of how climate-related shocks are intensifying public health risks,” said Dr Marie Roseline Darnycka Belizaire, Emergencies Director at the WHO Regional Office for Africa. “We are working closely with national authorities to provide emergency health assistance while strengthening preparedness and resilience of our health systems to better protect communities from the growing impact of climate-linked shocks.”

Southern Africa is in the midst of an active cyclone season, which typically runs from January to April, with above-average rains affecting cyclone-prone areas. Twenty-seven high-risk zones have been identified, where poor water, sanitation, and hygiene infrastructure, alongside recurrent cholera outbreaks, increase vulnerability.

The WHO warns that between March and August 2026, Southern Africa could see an additional 12,000 to 22,000 cholera cases under most probable scenarios. Factors contributing to the outbreaks include tropical cyclones, widespread flooding in Malawi, Mozambique, South Africa, and Zambia, conflict and population displacement, and inadequate urban water supply systems.

WHO and partners are supporting emergency responses by delivering essential health supplies, strengthening coordination, and improving disease surveillance and prevention measures. 

Public health experts emphasise that rapid intervention, including cholera vaccination, improved sanitation, and early treatment, is crucial to prevent further loss of life. Most patients experience mild or moderate diarrhoea treatable with oral rehydration solution (ORS), but severe cases require intravenous fluids and antibiotics.

Cholera remains a global public health threat and highlights persistent inequities in access to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene – critical measures for preventing waterborne diseases.

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