Zimbabwe cholera outbreak

Zimbabwe declared a state of emergency on Sept. 12 after an outbreak of cholera in the capital, Harare. Markets and schools were closed to prevent spreading the disease. At press time, the number of cholera cases in Harare was nearly 5,500, with 38 deaths attributed to the disease. The outbreak is believed to have been caused by overflowing sewers.

Cholera is a bacterial disease that is spread through contaminated drinking water. It causes watery diarrhea and vomiting, which, if left unchecked, can lead to severe dehydration and death. Treatment involves managing the symptoms with fluids and electrolytes.